Why Paul Pogba Still Hasn’t Played Three Months After Returning to Football

The reason why Paul Pogba has yet to play despite making his football return three months ago has been revealed.

Pogba, 32, was originally handed a four-year ban after testing positive for DHEA - a compound that promotes the production of hormones in the body, including testosterone.

However, the Frenchman saw his suspension reduced to 18 months after a successful appeal.

After his ban was over, Pogba signed for Ligue 1 club AS Monaco back in June.

However, the former Manchester United and Juventus star is yet to take to the field for his new club, despite the 25/26 season being nearly three months old.

Speaking back in July, Monaco'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."

Paul Pogba signed for AS Monaco this summer. Image: Getty

Now, Monaco manager Adi Hutter has stated that Pogba is edging ever closer to full fitness and is doing well with the training plans given to him by the club.

It has also been mentioned that Pogba will not be rushed back into action despite an ongoing injury crisis.

Hutter said: "We can't compare Paul Pogba's situation [with Ansu Fati's]. Fati is much younger than Paul. Ansu has been training for a long time. Today, Paul is being used more and more.

"We're in our process. We've given ourselves three months. He's getting closer to the group. He's physically and mentally well."

He added: "It's a consideration. With the injured, we have a look at that, but it makes no sense to bring someone in just to say we have someone."

It has been previously claimed that Pogba could make his long-awaited return to the pitch after the October international break.

Monaco are back in Ligue 1 action on Saturday afternoon when they take on Lorient at the Stade du Moustoir.