Paul Pogba has formally made a comeback to professional football by signing a two-year contract with AS Monaco till June 2027. The former Manchester United player was very emotional during the signing ceremony.
Pogba signed his deal with his head lowered during the press conference, crying as he did so. This significant occasion signifies the end of his protracted and challenging 18-month absence.
Having previously enjoyed top-tier success in Italy and England, this is his first participation with a professional club in France.
His return comes after an 18-month suspension for testing positive for the prohibited substance DHEA; the Court of Arbitration for Sport lowered the initial four-year punishment in early 2024 on appeal for lack of intent.
After a second tenure marred by injuries, Pogba’s contract with Juventus was amicably canceled in November 2024, leaving him clubless to this day.
Why Monaco?
With a strong Ligue 1 team that made it to the Champions League and the opportunity to restart his career at home, Monaco provides Pogba with a prominent platform. Monaco closed the purchase in spite of interest from teams in Saudi Arabia, MLS, Serie A, and the Bundesliga.
On August 17, when the 2025–26 Ligue 1 season begins, Pogba is anticipated to make his competitive debut for Monaco against Le Havre. Additionally, Champions League football is back.
As the 2026 World Cup draws near, he now has the opportunity to advocate for a recall to the French national squad.
The emotional significance
Pogba has openly grappled with mental health struggles and professional setbacks over recent years — injuries, interpersonal conflicts, and public scrutiny. His tears today seem to signal not just a professional return, but a deeply personal milestone after one of the darkest chapters of his career.
It was undeniably a powerful moment: one of football’s most recognizable midfielders, brought to tears at the simple act of signing a contract — a testament to both his resilience and his deep love for the game. Here’s hoping that Monaco proves the perfect stage for the next chapter in Pogba’s story.
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