Paul Pogba Weeps in Delight with Stunning Return After Two Years Out at Champions League Side in Career First
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Monaco / Paris, France — Former Manchester United and Juventus star Paul Pogba has officially signed a two‑year contract with AS Monaco, marking a powerful comeback after nearly two years off the pitch due to an 18‑month doping suspension. In an emotional first for his career, the 32‑year‑old midfielder broke down in tears at his unveiling, underlining the significance of this homecoming.
A Homecoming Decades in the Making
Despite rising through French youth academies at Le Havre, Torcy, and Roissy-en-Brie, this marks Pogba’s first professional spell in Ligue 1. After years of playing abroad, he returns to France for the first time at the senior level.
At Saturday’s official unveiling, Pogba appeared visibly moved, tears flowing as he signed his contract and grasped the club’s emblem, clutching the number 8 jersey.
Ban, Appeal, and Second Chance
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Pogba was suspended in October 2023 after testing positive for DHEA, a testosterone-boosting substance.
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He initially received a 4‑year ban, reduced to 18 months following appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. He resumed training in January 2025 and regained match fitness by March.
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His contract with Juventus ended by mutual consent in November 2024.
Why Monaco?
Monaco, fresh off a third-place Ligue 1 finish, secured Champions League qualification—a key motivator for Pogba. He reportedly took a pay cut to join a high-competition side that will give him a platform again in Europe’s elite tournament
Looking Ahead
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Pogba is expected to debut on August 17, facing his former academy side, Le Havre, in Ligue 1’s opener.
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He will also feature in the Champions League for the first time since March 2022.
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Monaco team-mate Kylian Mbappé voiced support on social media with a spirited “Pogback” message—“Daghe Munegu” (meaning “Go Monaco”)—welcoming Pogba back into the club fold.
Why This Matters
| Focus | Insight |
|---|---|
| Personal Redemption | Pogba’s tears reflect an emotional return after adversity |
| Career Reset | Opportunity to regain form at home and in elite competition |
| French Football Spotlight | Monaco’s push reflects Ligue 1’s rising competitiveness |
Fan & Analyst Reactions
From social media to fan forums, the sentiment is one of hope mixed with caution. Many see Monaco as the ideal environment for Pogba to get career momentum back and potentially rejoin the French national squad ahead of World Cup 2026.
NewsHouz will track Pogba’s performances this season, along with developments in Monaco’s Champions League campaign and his journey towards football redemption.
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