Pogba's Nightmare Deepens: Dropped from Monaco's UCL Squad!
The dream return has spiraled into a nightmare for Paul Pogba, as Monaco officially removed the World Cup winner from their Champions League squad ahead of a crucial play-off against Paris Saint-Germain. What was meant to be a triumphant comeback after his doping ban has been marred by relentless injuries and minimal playtime, raising serious questions about his future at the top level.
Key Points:
- Paul Pogba has been excluded from Monaco's Champions League squad for their crucial play-off ties against PSG.
- The midfielder has only managed 30 minutes across three Ligue 1 appearances this season due to a string of persistent injuries.
- Monaco's general manager admits there's "no clear answer" to Pogba's ongoing fitness issues, highlighting the medical department's focused efforts.
- Despite the setbacks, former teammate Bacary Sagna remains optimistic, suggesting Pogba could still make France's 2026 World Cup squad.
Pogba's Rocky Road: From Ban to Bench in Monaco
Paul Pogba's journey back to competitive football has been anything but smooth. After a four-year doping ban was dramatically reduced to 18 months on appeal, his contract with Juventus was mutually terminated in November 2024. His subsequent move to Monaco in the summer of 2025 was meant to mark a fresh start, offering him the chance to play domestic football in his home country for the very first time.
A Season Defined by Frustration and Limited Action
However, the reality at Monaco has been stark. The gifted midfielder has been relegated to a mere spectator for much of the season, clocking a paltry 30 minutes across just three Ligue 1 appearances. While he was building match fitness after nearly two years without competitive action, a relentless wave of niggling injuries — affecting his calf, thigh, and ankle — has kept him firmly on the sidelines. He even remained an unused substitute for Monaco's Champions League group stage matches, a testament to his fitness struggles.
Champions League Dream Shattered for Midfield Maestro
Now, the situation has escalated, with RMC Sport confirming that Pogba is one of three players dropped from Monaco's Champions League squad. This decision comes just before their high-stakes two-legged play-off against domestic rivals PSG. Joining Pogba on the sidelines are Mohammed Salisu and Takumi Minamino, also due to injuries, while Krepin Diatta, Wout Faes, and Simon Adingra have been brought in. For Pogba, missing out on such a monumental European tie is a brutal blow, underscoring his current career crisis.
Monaco's Medical Puzzle: No Easy Answers for Pogba's Ailments
The uncertainty surrounding Pogba's physical condition is palpable. Asked about his availability, Monaco general manager Thiago Scuro admitted, "There's no clear answer to that question. We still need to develop the process to clarify the situation." This candid admission highlights the complex nature of Pogba's ongoing injury woes, suggesting a challenging road ahead to regain full fitness and consistency.
The Unyielding Hope: Sagna Backs Pogba for France Return
Despite the continuous setbacks, Paul Pogba still has staunch defenders. Former teammate Bacary Sagna, speaking exclusively to GOAL, steadfastly believes Pogba's international career is far from over. Sagna suggested that Pogba, a "special player" with exceptional technical and mental attributes, could still make Didier Deschamps' squad for the 2026 World Cup.
"He doesn't need to run a lot," Sagna explained, drawing parallels to players like Sergio Busquets. "Mentally and technically he is ahead of the normal. You never know. Every time there is a list, there is always a surprise. He could be the surprise of Didier Deschamps." It’s a bold prediction, but one that speaks to the undeniable talent that once made Pogba one of the world's most coveted midfielders.
.jpg)
