Paul Pogba Returns to Football, Joins AS Monaco on Two-Year Deal

French midfielder Paul Pogba has returned to football after signing a two-year contract with Ligue 1 side AS Monaco.

The 2018 World Cup winner had been out of action for months following a doping ban. Originally given a four-year suspension in February 2024, the ban was later reduced to 18 months. It was backdated to start from September 2023, meaning Pogba was cleared to play again from March 2025.

Now 32 years old, Pogba had been without a club since November last year, when he and Juventus agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent. He has not played a professional match since appearing as a substitute in a 2-0 win for Juventus against Empoli.

AS Monaco confirmed the signing on Saturday, 28 June 2025, in a statement on their official website:
“AS Monaco are delighted to announce the arrival of Paul Pogba. The French World Champion has signed a 2-season deal, and is now tied to the Principality until 30 June 2027.”

Pogba began his professional career at Manchester United before moving to Juventus in 2012. He returned to United in 2016 for a then-world record fee, but left again in 2022 on a free transfer to rejoin Juventus. His second spell in Turin saw him make just 12 appearances due to injuries and the doping suspension.

At Monaco, Pogba will team up with defender Eric Dier, who also joined the club this summer after leaving Bayern Munich.

Monaco finished third in Ligue 1 last season, behind Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille. The club is hoping Pogba’s experience and leadership can help push them closer to the top.

Pogba’s return also raises hopes that he could make a case for a spot in France’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.