At one time, the Frenchman was amongst the game’s most sought-after players, but a turbulent period has seen him fall away from the spotlight.
He has now been given the chance to reinvigorate his career, but he is being made to wait for his return to the game.
We have taken a closer look at Pogba’s story and explained why Monaco are being cautious with their high-profile summer signing.
What happened to Paul Pogba?
When he rejoined Manchester United from Juventus in 2016, Pogba became the world’s most expensive footballer in a record-breaking £89 million move.
He won the UEFA Europa League and League Cup during his time at Old Trafford and earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year with his performances in the 2018/19 campaign.
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After six years in Manchester, Pogba returned to Turin, but injuries hampered his second spell with the Italian giants, and then a failed drugs test led to him being released.
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Paul Pogba
Image credit: Getty Images
Why has Pogba not played for Monaco yet?
Despite taking a chance on Pogba, Monaco were clear from the outset that he would not be thrown straight into action.
Speaking in July, the club’s general director, Thiago Scuro, said: “We expect a three-month process. High-level sport is a lot about science and it is not easy.
“Monaco is one of the most intense teams in Ligue 1 and play a style that requires him to be fit.”
Pogba was happy with this cautious approach from his new employers. After signing, he said: “I definitely want to get back on the pitch, but I can’t be in too much of a hurry.
“Sometimes kids want things right away, but management told me they’d take the time to get me in top shape. I’m here first and foremost to help the team, but I won’t be able to do it at 50%.
“So I really want to take the time I need to contribute and listen to the club.
“I’m really determined once again to get a feel for the pitch and the ball again, but we’ll take the time we need for that.”
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Paul Pogba
Image credit: Getty Images
When will Pogba make his debut?
Speaking ahead of the Champions League match against Pep Guardiola’s side, Monaco head coach Adi Hutter confirmed Pogba would not be involved.
“We are following his plan,” Hutter said.
“We expected him maybe for the game against Nice (on Sunday) in the squad, but I think we have to postpone it for the game against Angers (on October 18) maybe.
“At the moment he’s doing more of the warming up, and also in small-sided games. Now he’s increasing a lot, he’s doing well at the moment, and I hope after the national team break he can be a part of the squad.”
