After an 811-day absence due to a doping suspension and contract termination, Paul Pogba made his emotional return to competitive football for AS Monaco in Ligue 1.
According to a report from Football Italia, Paul Pogba returned to the field on Saturday for AS Monaco, making his first competitive appearance in 811 days.
The 32-year-old entered as a late substitute in Monaco’s Ligue 1 match against Rennes, replacing Mamadou Coulibaly in the 85th minute.
His last outing had been in September 2023 for Juventus, before he was sidelined by a high-profile doping suspension. The initial four-year ban was later shortened to 18 months, allowing him to resume his career.
In November 2024, Pogba mutually terminated his contract with Juventus, paving the way for a fresh start.
Pogba’s comeback arrives after months of uncertainty and rehabilitation. His return is not only a personal moment of redemption, but also a significant boost for Monaco, who signed him in June 2025 on a two-year deal.
While the match ended in a 4–1 defeat for Monaco, Pogba’s presence on the pitch marks a symbolic milestone — the former World Cup winner is finally back doing what he loves.

