Tearful Pogba returns to football with Monaco after doping ban: ‘We went through hell’
MONACO — Paul Pogba broke down in tears as he signed a two-year deal with AS Monaco, marking an emotional return to football after serving an 18-month doping ban.
The 32-year-old former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder had not played a competitive match since September 2023. His initial four-year suspension for an adverse drugs test was reduced to 18 months last October. Juventus mutually terminated his contract shortly after the ban.
Monaco confirmed Saturday that Pogba has joined the club until the summer of 2027. It marks the first time the 2018 World Cup winner will play in France’s top division.
In a video released by the club, Pogba appeared visibly emotional, wiping tears from his eyes and placing his head in his hands while being comforted by friends. Struggling to speak, he managed to say, “Thank you for the trust,” before adding, “La renaissance,” signaling his intent to relaunch his career in Ligue 1.
Pogba’s last full 90-minute appearance came in March 2022 with Manchester United, while his last match for France was later that month in a 5-0 win over South Africa. Despite earning 91 caps for France, he had never featured in Ligue 1 until now.
In an interview with Mail Sport, Pogba recounted how he learned of his return date.
“Here’s a funny story: I was trying on a new suit for a film premiere but I didn’t have my phone,” Pogba said. “My wife (Zulay) comes rushing upstairs with my phone screaming, ‘It’s the lawyer.’ I said I would call him back but she said I had to take the call.
“So I went downstairs to speak to him with the suit on! He told me the news and I was silent. Everyone was jumping, so happy but I was in shock.
“Quickly that happiness turned into a determination. We went through hell. A time of darkness. But this is my second chance, I have to use it. I was pumped.”
Pogba had drawn interest from Marseille, Manchester City, Corinthians, MLS clubs and even a potential return to United, but ultimately opted to join Monaco, who finished third in Ligue 1 last season.
His return comes ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Pogba hopeful of earning a recall to the French national team. _*– DailyMail*_
