Paul Pogba is on the verge of completing one of football’s most remarkable comebacks. After 26 months away from competitive action, the 32-year-old French midfielder has officially returned to full-team training with AS Monaco and is now expected to be available for selection as early as this weekend. His return marks a decisive moment in a career tested by injury setbacks, suspension, and intense public scrutiny. Pogba’s long absence began when he tested positive for a banned substance, DHEA, in 2023. The initial four-year suspension threatened to end his career prematurely, but after appeal

Paul Pogba is on the verge of completing one of football’s most remarkable comebacks. After 26 months away from competitive action, the 32-year-old French midfielder has officially returned to full-team training with AS Monaco and is now expected to be available for selection as early as this weekend. His return marks a decisive moment in a career tested by injury setbacks, suspension, and intense public scrutiny. Pogba’s long absence began when he tested positive for a banned substance, DHEA, in 2023. The initial four-year suspension threatened to end his career prematurely, but after appeal, the ban was reduced to 18 months. The midfielder used this period to recover physically and mentally, preparing for a fresh start. In June 2025, he signed a two-year deal with AS Monaco, returning to Ligue 1 in search of stability and redemption. Since joining Monaco, Pogba has followed a carefully structured reintegration program. Reports from L’Équipe confirm that he resumed collective training step by step, rebuilding rhythm and confidence after more than two years away. A minor ankle injury briefly slowed his progress, but medical assessments have since cleared him to return to the squad. Monaco coach Sébastien Pocognoli has stressed that the club will not rush him, focusing instead on long-term consistency and performance. Despite that caution, the atmosphere around his comeback remains highly charged. Crucially, Pogba’s highly anticipated return is now linked to Monaco’s upcoming fixture. The club is preparing to face Rennes on 22 November, a match that could mark Pogba’s first appearance since his suspension. Internal sources suggest that if he responds well in the final training sessions, he could be included in the matchday squad, raising expectations among supporters eager to witness his official comeback. The Rennes vs AS Monaco clash has gained added significance, with fans across France looking forward to seeing how Pogba handles his first competitive minutes in over two years. Throughout the challenges of his suspension, legal battles, and injury struggles, Pogba has maintained the belief that he still has more to give. He has spoken openly about feeling mentally and physically ready, and those close to him describe a player who has gained maturity and resilience during his time away. Now at 32, Pogba enters a new phase of his career with renewed purpose, determined to rewrite his narrative. For Monaco, Pogba’s return represents both opportunity and risk. His experience from Manchester United, Juventus, and the French national team brings undeniable value, but the club must also manage expectations surrounding a player returning after such a long absence. If Pogba remains fit, his technique, vision, and leadership could significantly elevate Monaco’s midfield and inspire the squad. As 22 November approaches, anticipation continues to build. Pogba is not just returning to football; he is stepping into a fresh chapter defined by perseverance and the desire to prove that he still belongs at the top level. His comeback is more than a sporting moment — it is a story of resilience, patience, and a passion that has survived the toughest challenges of his career

A little more informed. A little more connected.