Paul Pogba speaks on possible return to France national team, joining AS Monaco, Juventus exit & more

Paul Pogba made his return to football after 18 months of suspension by signing for AS Monaco

Paul Pogba made headlines again after signing a two-year contract with AS Monaco. The Frenchman came on the pitch after 18 months of being away from the football pitch. Pogba was suspended after testing positive for DHEA while playing for Juventus. However, it was reduced by half after he lodged a convincing appeal. Pogba, 32 years old, had not played in an official match since September 2023.

His relationship with Juventus ended in November 2024, after agreeing to terminate his contract. As soon as the door opened, Monaco signed him without hesitation. The club, which finished third in Ligue 1 last season, believes his experience can bring something different to the title race. For Pogba, this will be a much-needed second chance after a painful process that tarnished his reputation. Now the midfielder has to deliver on the pitch.

On joining AS Monaco:

The Frenchman spoke to the media and expressed that he hoped to be even better at Monaco than before, since he felt a stronger desire now. He mentioned that at Monaco, he had everything he needed to become a top player again. The Frenchman added that he was still the same Paul Pogba, though perhaps more determined, and he believed people would see that determination in him.

“I hope to be even better than before because I have more desire. Here, I have everything to become a big player again […]   It is still the same Paul Pogba, perhaps a more determined one. You will see a determined Paul Pogba.“

On the French National Team:

Regarding his return to the French national team, Pogba explained that he knows it will not be easy. He said he spoke with Didier Deschamps, who joked with him and wished him luck in returning when he was ready. Pogba said he understands that he must first regain his form and show his level to deserve a call-up.

He insisted that every step must be earned through hard work and patience. For Pogba, putting on the France jersey again and playing in the 2026 World Cup would be a dream come true after so many months of uncertainty. Now it is time to focus on his weekly performance.

“It’s fine, you’ve signed for Monaco, you can come back whenever you want” (he’s joking)! I’m joking, of course, even though it’s obviously the wish of every French player to join the national team. But today I’m at the first stage of my comeback, which is to get back in shape and perform well. There are steps to take to achieve that, and you have to earn them.”

On Juventus exit:

Pogba was sincere about Juventus. He assured that he will always carry the club in his heart because they gave him the platform to become the player he was. However, he admitted that there were internal situations that he did not like.

Even so, the Frenchman highlighted the support he received from Andrea Agnelli and Giorgio Chiellini. He revealed that both kept in constant contact and took an interest in his situation when many others remained silent. Pogba believes that this support makes all the difference and is grateful for these displays of affection. For him, Juventus will always be a key part of his history.

“I always loved and always will love Juventus. This club helped me become what I am today. Some people have their own way of doing things. There were some things I liked, others that I did not. Agnelli sent me messages and would call me up. This is called support. Chiellini, who arrived later, also sent me messages.”

What’s next for Pogba?

This story evokes mixed feelings. On the one hand, it is exciting to see such a talented footballer get another chance to prove that he can still compete. On the other hand, there remains the question of whether Pogba will be able to find the consistency that he always lacked, even in his best years. Monaco are taking a risk with a player who arrives with a history of injuries, controversies and a sanction.

However, if anyone deserves redemption, it is him. Pogba’s quality was never in question, and his challenge now is to regain the trust of a dressing room, the fans and perhaps a country. It remains to be seen whether the excitement will outweigh the weight of expectation. If Pogba manages to focus, this signing could be a complete success. If not, his story could end as a promise that faded without shining as brightly as it could have.

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