Paul Pogba Makes Emotional Return to Football with Monaco
November 23, 2025, 05:37 AM ET
After a two-year absence from professional soccer due to a doping suspension that was reduced to 18 months on appeal, Paul Pogba has officially returned to the pitch. He made his comeback in the 85th minute during Monaco’s recent match against Rennes, which ended in a 4-1 defeat. The crowd at Roazhon Park welcomed him with a resounding ovation.
The 32-year-old last played on September 3, 2023, for Juventus against Empoli. This article explores the events leading up to his return to football.
August 8, 2016: The Return to Manchester United
After departing from Manchester United in 2012, Pogba spent four successful years at Juventus, where he clinched four Serie A titles and two Coppa Italia trophies. In August 2016, he made headlines by rejoining Manchester United for a then-world-record transfer fee of £89.3 million.
“Paul Pogba. #POGBACK” – Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 9, 2016
He debuted in a 2-0 victory over Southampton, helping United secure both the Europa League and the Carabao Cup in his first season. However, his relationships with managers Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were tumultuous, impacting his performance.
June 1, 2022: Leaving United
Manchester United announced that Pogba would leave the club at the end of his contract without a transfer fee. The club recognized his contributions, highlighting the memorable moments and achievements from his time there.
Pogba expressed his gratitude on social media, noting the privilege of having played for the club and the lasting support from fans.
July 11, 2022: A Second Stint at Juventus
Pogba opted to return to Italy, signing for Juventus once again on a free transfer.
“Paul is back in Turin,” – Juventus statement
Although the club celebrated his return, he soon encountered injury struggles and had a troubled relationship with coach Massimiliano Allegri.
September 14, 2022: Family Drama
Complications arose when Pogba’s brother, Mathias, along with five others, was arrested over an alleged extortion attempt against the Juventus star, demanding €13 million (approximately $13 million).
October 31, 2022: World Cup Exclusion
It was confirmed that Pogba would not participate in the 2022 World Cup due to recovery from a knee surgery. His agent announced that Pogba needed more time to heal and could not join either Juventus or the French national team for the tournament.
September 11, 2023: Doping Controversy
Pogba tested positive for DHEA, a banned substance, after a match against Udinese in August. This led to an investigation by Italy’s anti-doping agency, which resulted in a provisional suspension.
In response to the findings, Pogba maintained that he had unknowingly consumed supplements containing the banned substance.
February 29, 2024: Suspension Announcement
The anti-doping prosecutors aimed for a four-year ban as Pogba underwent a fitness rehabilitation process to prepare for his eventual return to play.
November 22, 2025: Return to Action
After 811 days away from competitive play, Pogba stepped onto the field against Rennes, receiving a warm welcome. Reflecting on the moment, he remarked, “Football isn’t over for me. We’ve worked hard, and today, it finally happened. Thank God. It really touched me to see the crowd stand and applaud. A huge thank-you to all the fans.”
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