Monaco’s plan for Pogba was well thought out. Head coach Adi Hütter and the club aimed to gradually increase his playing time from October to December.
The goal was to help him regain his fitness and make contributions in Ligue 1 and European matches. However, the reality has been challenging. Instead of more game time, Pogba has only played about 30 minutes since his arrival.
His brief appearances against Rennes, Paris Saint-Germain, and Brest showcased his skill but were insufficient for building rhythm or confidence. There have also been issues during training that have hindered his progress.
In mid-December, he sustained a left calf injury in training, marking his third muscle issue this season. This led to him missing several matches and disrupting any momentum he had built. Monaco’s CEO, Thiago Scuro, admitted that their original plan “is not working as expected,” revealing how much Pogba’s season has struggled.
The club has been careful with his playing time, at times not including him in matchday squads to manage his fitness, but this hasn’t stopped further injuries. The persistent nature of these problems raises concerns about Pogba’s physical condition as he approaches his mid-thirties in a demanding sport.
Concerns for France and World Cup Participation
When Pogba joined Monaco, he hoped to be part of the French national team for the 2026 World Cup. France has qualified without him, and coach Didier Deschamps has several midfielders to choose from. Considering Pogba’s limited playtime this season, his chances seem slim.
Pogba has spoken cautiously about his international future, acknowledging that his performance at the club level will affect his selection. However, with so few minutes played, his case does not look strong.
Experts and former players have expressed doubts, with some questioning whether he will make Deschamps’ squad. Typically, World Cup selections come from players who are fit and regularly playing, and at 32, Pogba is up against younger, healthier competitors. His injury history this season complicates his chances further, although there is still potential for him to make a comeback as the tournament nears.
Implications for Monaco and Pogba’s Future
Monaco acquired Pogba with the aim of utilizing his experience for domestic and European success. Instead, they have seen their plans fall apart. The CEO hinted that changes might be necessary if the situation does not improve, indicating that both Pogba and the club might reassess their partnership at the season’s end.
This season has also been difficult for AS Monaco as they struggle in the league without Pogba’s creative input. His limited time on the field has prevented him from making a significant impact in crucial matches.
For Pogba, the situation is serious. He joined Monaco for a fresh start and to demonstrate his continued relevance in top-level football. However, the stop-start nature of his season has raised many questions about his fitness and future. It remains uncertain whether Monaco will continue to support him or look for more reliable alternatives.
Conclusion
Pogba’s season with AS Monaco has evolved into a relationship of lost opportunities. From celebrating a World Cup win in 2018 to facing numerous fitness challenges, his career journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football.
His aspirations to rejuvenate his career in Ligue 1 and return to the French national team for the 2026 World Cup are fading. With each week of limited play and recurring injuries, his hopes grow dimmer.
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