Paul Pogba released by Monaco after injury struggles

MONACO: Paul Pogba’s difficult comeback has suffered another setback after Monaco confirmed the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder will leave the club following a frustrating spell dominated by injuries.

The 33-year-old joined Monaco after serving an 18-month doping ban, hoping to rebuild his career and return to the level that once made him one of world football’s most influential midfielders. Instead, persistent fitness problems limited his opportunities.

Monaco said the objectives agreed with Pogba had been “only partially achieved” and confirmed that his contract, which was due to run until June 2027, would be terminated.

Pogba is currently recovering from a thigh injury after recently returning from a knee problem. His limited involvement underlined the extent of his struggles, with the midfielder making only six Ligue 1 appearances last season and spending just 115 minutes on the pitch.

Despite his lack of playing time, Monaco praised Pogba’s attitude and influence around the squad.

The club highlighted his “remarkable mindset, determination and unwavering high standards”, adding that he remained a positive presence even while injured by sharing his experience and knowledge with younger teammates.

Pogba also acknowledged that his Monaco adventure had not gone according to plan.

“I have not played as many matches as I would have hoped,” he said while thanking Monaco’s president, management, teammates, staff and supporters for their belief in him.

The Frenchman’s career was once on an entirely different trajectory.

Pogba rose to prominence at Juventus, where he became one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders and was named Serie A Player of the Year. During his two spells at Manchester United, he made 233 appearances and helped the club compete for major honours.

His greatest international achievement came in 2018, when he played a central role in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia.

However, his career took a dramatic turn in 2023 when he tested positive for testosterone while playing for Juventus. Pogba maintained that the prohibited substance came from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor in the United States.

He was initially handed a four-year suspension, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport later reduced the punishment to 18 months following his appeal.

After completing the ban, Pogba joined Monaco last year hoping for a fresh beginning.

Instead, injuries have once again interrupted his ambitions.

At 33, the former world champion now faces another uncertain chapter, with his next move likely to determine whether he can mount one final return to competitive football—or whether injuries and setbacks have finally brought an extraordinary career to a premature crossroads.