Paul Pogba finally made his long-awaited return to football, as he featured for Monaco for the first time after an 18-month doping ban.
Paul Pogba has finally returned to the pitch, making his Monaco debut in a 4-1 defeat to Rennes. The French midfielder came on in the 85th minute, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.
Pogba, 32, had been absent from competitive football since September 2023, when he tested positive for banned substance DHEA.
The former Manchester United and Juventus star had been handed a four-year ban, later reduced to 18 months after an appeal. Pogba expressed relief and gratitude, saying, “I’m relieved to be playing football again, the thing I love most in the world”
Pogba’s return was delayed by injuries, including a recent right ankle injury. He acknowledged that he still has work to do to regain full fitness, stating, “If I don’t perform well at Monaco, I can forget about the French national team”
Despite setbacks, Pogba remained optimistic, believing in himself and his abilities. “I knew I had done nothing wrong and it was not my fault, I never lost hope,” he said.
Monaco will face Pafos in the Champions League on Wednesday, followed by a Ligue 1 match against Paris St Germain on Saturday.
