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World Cup-winning midfielder Paul Pogba has officially signed a two-year contract with AS Monaco, marking a major step in his return to competitive football after an 18-month doping ban. The 32-year-old French international is expected to complete his medical later this week before joining the team for pre-season preparations.
The move brings Pogba back to French domestic football for the first time in his professional career, despite having developed in the youth ranks of Le Havre. The agreement runs through June 2027 and signals Monaco’s growing ambition following their third-place finish in Ligue 1 last season.
A Comeback Story
Pogba’s career had been in limbo since September 2023, when he last appeared for Juventus. In early 2024, he was handed a doping suspension for elevated testosterone levels, later reduced on appeal to 18 months. With his ban now completed as of March 2025, the midfielder had attracted attention from clubs in Saudi Arabia, Major League Soccer, and across Europe.
Ultimately, Pogba chose Monaco for both personal and sporting reasons, reportedly valuing the club’s competitive ambitions, proximity to home, and the opportunity to relaunch his career in the UEFA Champions League.
Strategic Move for Monaco
Monaco, under manager Adi Hütter, have been bolstering their squad for a return to European competition. Pogba joins a growing list of high-profile reinforcements, including defender Eric Dier from Bayern Munich. The club is also in talks to sign Spanish winger Ansu Fati, reflecting a clear push to challenge domestically and in Europe.
Pogba brings a wealth of experience, including a UEFA Europa League title, four Serie A championships with Juventus, and a 2018 FIFA World Cup win with France. Despite injury setbacks and off-pitch struggles in recent years, his talent and leadership could provide Monaco with the midfield strength and international presence they need.
What Lies Ahead
The next steps for Pogba include passing his medical examinations and joining Monaco’s pre-season camp. His return to peak form will be closely watched by fans and critics alike, especially as he aims to work his way back into the French national team setup ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
In a statement expected later this week, Pogba is likely to address his return and his decision to sign with Monaco.
Club officials have described the move as a “statement of intent” and praised Pogba’s determination to compete at the highest level again.
Contract Summary
• Club: AS Monaco
• Contract Length: 2 years (until June 2027)
• Medical: Scheduled this week
• Transfer Type: Free agent
• Previous Club: Juventus
With this signing, AS Monaco not only secures a marquee player but also offers a platform for one of football’s most compelling comeback stories. As Pogba begins this new chapter in the principality, the football world will be watching closely.