Former France international Paul Pogba has officially signed a two-year deal with Ligue 1 side AS Monaco, marking a significant step in his bid to resurrect his football career. The 32-year-old midfielder, once one of the most valuable players in the world, was overcome with emotion during the signing ceremony, breaking down in tears in a moment that touched everyone in the room.
An Emotional Return to Football
After months of uncertainty and rejection following his suspension, Pogba has finally found a lifeline. Monaco offered the World Cup winner a two-year contract, running until June 30, 2027, a move that could give Pogba the stage he needs to regain form and, potentially, make a case for a return to the French national team.
The signing ceremony was deeply emotional. Surrounded by family members and club staff, Pogba buried his face in his hands and cried openly at the table where the contract was signed. Supporters around him offered pats on the back and words of encouragement in a moving show of solidarity.
A Career of Highs and Heartbreaks
Paul Pogba’s career has been a rollercoaster. Once hailed as one of football’s brightest stars, the Frenchman began his senior journey at Manchester United before rising to global prominence at Juventus. In 2016, United brought him back for a then-world record fee of over €100 million.
In 2018, Pogba played a crucial role in helping France win the FIFA World Cup in Russia, a crowning achievement that solidified his status as one of the world’s best midfielders.
However, injuries and inconsistency plagued his second stint at Juventus. Things took a darker turn in August 2023, when Pogba tested positive for a banned substance, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), after a Serie A match against Udinese. Initially handed a four-year ban, Pogba appealed the decision and successfully proved it was an accidental ingestion. His suspension was ultimately reduced to 18 months.
Despite the appeal win, Juventus terminated his contract in November 2024. Pogba was officially eligible to return to professional football as of March 11, 2025, but finding a new club proved far from easy.
Monaco Offers a New Beginning
Monaco‘s announcement brings hope to Pogba and his fans. In their official statement, the club wrote:
“We are delighted to welcome Paul Pogba. As a World Cup winner and experienced international, his presence will bring leadership and quality to our midfield.”
Pogba will wear the No. 8 jersey in the upcoming season and could be part of Monaco’s UEFA Champions League campaign if the team advances through qualifiers.
For Pogba, this is more than a contract; it’s a second chance at the game he loves. Speaking after the signing, Pogba shared,
“These past months have been incredibly hard. I’ve learned a lot. I’m grateful to AS Monaco for believing in me. Now, it’s time to work, to give everything I have, and to prove that I still belong at the top.”
With the Ligue 1 season approaching and the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on Pogba. If he can stay fit and deliver consistently, a call-up to Les Bleus may not be out of the question.
After all he’s been through, Pogba’s story is now one of redemption, and the next chapter begins in Monaco.
