Paul Pogba's return to football after a lengthy absence has been met with excitement and anticipation. The French midfielder made his debut for AS Monaco after serving an 18-month doping ban and recovering from injuries. But can he rediscover his form in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Pogba's Triumphant Return
Pogba's return to the pitch was a moment of pure emotion. After more than two years away, he finally stepped onto the field for Monaco in a match against Rennes. While Monaco lost the game, Pogba's presence injected a much-needed dose of hope and excitement into the team. He received a standing ovation from the crowd, a moment he described as unforgettable.
World Cup Dreams
Despite his return, Pogba remains realistic about his chances of making the French national team for the 2026 World Cup. He acknowledges that he is currently far from being in contention for a call-up. His main focus is on regaining his fitness and contributing to Monaco's success. He understands that performing well for his club is the only way to earn a place in the national team.
"I’m very far from it," Pogba stated, emphasizing his commitment to Monaco. "I’m focused on getting my fitness back to help the team. If I don’t perform well at Monaco, I’ll have to forget about the French national team."
Challenges Ahead
Pogba faces several challenges as he attempts to resurrect his career. He needs to regain his match fitness, adapt to Monaco's playing style, and prove that he can still perform at the highest level. He also needs to overcome the skepticism of some observers who doubt whether he can return to his former glory.
Expert Opinions
Sidney Govou, a sports consultant, expressed reservations about Pogba's prospects, stating, "When he comes back, he won’t be able to do the same things he did in the past. He will certainly no longer have the speed of execution."
However, Pogba remains confident in his abilities and determined to prove his doubters wrong. He believes that he has the talent and experience to make a significant contribution to Monaco and potentially earn a place in the French national team.
What's Next?
Pogba is likely to feature in Monaco's upcoming Champions League match against Pafos, as he continues to build up his fitness. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether he can rediscover his best form and achieve his World Cup dream. Will he silence his critics and prove that he is still a world-class player? Only time will tell.