Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba dreamed of a late push for World Cup 2026.
When the France squad was named for the March 2026 friendly matches it was no surprise that Paul Pogba was not involved.
But it represented a sad milestone for the Monaco midfielder, with his final chance to impress Didier Deschamps passing him by.
One of the reasons for Pogba signing in Ligue 1 last summer was the opportunity to stage a late bid to work his way back into the France squad, AS reported.
He has been unable to get close to making an impact for Monaco, let alone France. He has not made any of France’s squads this season.
Paul Pogba playing Monaco
Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images
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Pogba latest
French newspaper L’Equipe reported this week that Paul Pogba has returned to training for Monaco as he bids to make his latest comeback.
Pogba’s season at Monaco has been a disaster. He has played only 30 minutes across three separate substitute appearances.
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He has not played at all in 2026, with his previous appearance coming on December 5.
It is notable that Pogba’s mere presence in training constitutes news. He had been dealing with a calf injury. His attempts to return earlier this year were cancelled due to a setback.
While Deschamps’ World Cup squad are gearing up for their latest warm-ups, Pogba is just trying to get onto the pitch. The difference could not be more glaring.
The Les Bleus squad still features several of Pogba’s former teammates; Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe, and even Ngolo Kante.
Pogba has been unable to keep up, with his career cursed since leaving Manchester United in 2022.
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Pogba’s tale of woe
Paul Pogba returned to Juventus after leaving Manchester United, signing with the Italian side on a free transfer for a second time.
This time it backfired on Juventus, with Pogba’s spell ruined by injuries. He then failed a drugs test that he later appealed, only after serving a lengthy ban.
After his contract was terminated, Pogba eventually signed with Monaco last summer, dreaming of a fresh start and playing in Ligue 1 for the first time.
So far he has just contributed 30 minutes, failing to justify his salary, despite earning far less than he did at Manchester United.
Pogba’s contract runs until 2027, and he will be desperately hoping to finish the season strongly and get back on the pitch.
The 2018 World Cup winner can forget 2026 though. His time has passed him by.
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