Paul Pogba has formally signed for Ligue 1 aspect AS Monaco on a free switch, marking a dramatic return to top-flight soccer following an 18-month suspension. The previous Manchester United and Juventus midfielder has penned a two-year contract and can put on the quantity 8 shirt for the Monegasques.
This transfer ends almost two years on the sidelines for the 32-year-old, whose profession was placed on maintain after testing constructive for elevated testosterone ranges in late 2023. Initially hit with a four-year ban, Pogba’s punishment was later diminished to 18 months by the Court docket of Arbitration for Sport, making a comeback attainable.
Whereas Saudi and MLS golf equipment had been reportedly , and even Manchester Metropolis had been linked in a shock winter method, Monaco acted decisively to seal the deal. Pogba handed his medical on Saturday and was unveiled with a cinematic promotional video depicting a symbolic “rebirth.”
Within the video, Pogba expressed his pleasure, saying, “Rebirth. Like a child all excited for the primary day of college.” The announcement was accompanied by his affirmation as Monaco’s new quantity 8—beforehand worn by Aurelien Tchouameni, Youri Tielemans, and Joao Moutinho.
Although he beforehand wore No. 6 and No. 10 for France, Juventus, and Manchester United, this marks Pogba’s first senior marketing campaign with the quantity 8 shirt.
His first aggressive look may are available in a symbolic Ligue 1 opener in opposition to Le Havre—the membership the place his soccer journey started. It additionally marks Pogba’s long-awaited Ligue 1 debut, having left France for Manchester United’s academy at simply 16.
Monaco, who completed third in Ligue 1 final season, will hope Pogba’s expertise and starvation to show himself can increase their Champions League marketing campaign.
