Fans were quick to react after footage of Paul Pogba making his first start in almost three years went viral.
On Saturday, the French midfielder started his first game since May 14, 2023, when he was plying his trade at Serie A giants Juventus, before receiving a four-year doping ban that was later reduced to 18 months on appeal, allowing him to return to competitive football in March 2025.
In June 2025, Pogba penned a two-year deal with Ligue 1 side AS Monaco. However, in keeping with much of his career, his time in the Principality has been marred by injury issues.
The former Manchester United man has managed just six appearances for Monaco this term, with the side sitting sixth in the French top flight.
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Earlier this week, he opened up about his mental struggles during his time away from the pitch, admitting that he almost called time on his career.
Speaking to French outlet Footmercato, he said: “Honestly, there were times when I was like, ‘That’s it, it’s getting on my nerves.’ I do everything, I come, I’m here, and it doesn’t stop, it just keeps going. I was thinking, ‘What more do I have to do to avoid all this?’
“And actually, it’s about time and patience. You have to have the patience to keep going and not give up. I was lucky to have people around me, whether it was my family or close friends, who would say to me, ‘What are you talking about?’
“When I see the messages, whether on social media or when I arrive at the stadiums, they applaud. I can’t stop here. I want to give that love and joy back to the people.”
But at long last, on Saturday, Pogba started a match for the first time in almost three years as Monaco beat Metz 2–1, thanks to strikes from Folarin Balogun and Ansu Fati.
Footage of Pogba’s performance quickly went viral, with fans commenting on social media.
One said: “Wish Deschamps gives Pogba a call-up. Imagine him and Cherki creating for Olise, Dembele and Mbappe.”
Another added: “Paul Labile Pogba… it’s always good to see you on the pitch. Continue creating the magic… hoping for a better season next season, with full game time to see you in full form.”
A third claimed: “Man, if this guy gets his original form back and is selected for the World Cup, then it’s over for other teams. With a midfield of Pogba and Kante, and a forward line of Mbappe, Olise, Doue and Cherki, France can score like six or seven goals every match.”
While a fourth commented: “Big comeback moment for Paul Pogba after everything he’s been through, just being back on the pitch is a win. Man really went through it and still came back.”
Monaco return to action at home against Lille on May 10.
Topics: Paul Pogba, AS Monaco, Football, Ligue 1
Luke Davies