All the lights are green for Paul Pogba, on the verge of making his comeback to competition, 26 months after his last match.
This time, nothing seems to stand in the way of Paul Pogba’s return. Two years and two months after his last match, the French world champion should be present in the Monegasque group to face Rennes, Saturday evening, at Roazhon Park. The end of a long series marked firstly by his suspension for doping but also by repeated physical problems.
Questioned by AFP on Monday, his trainer Sébastien Pocognoli wanted to be cautious. “My communication will remain down to earth like our internal analysis, he confided. I said we would judge on what he will propose now. It is also out of kindness. I hope (his return). But the last time I said it… (he got hurt). So I try not to get too far ahead of myself. It will happen when it needs to happen. »
Since the start of the fall, the native of Lagny-sur-Marne was expected for the first time against Angers, on October 18, then against Paris FC at the beginning of the month, but each time, a physical problem – calf muscle injury then slight ankle sprain – had thwarted the plans of the Monegasque staff.
“It will be something fantastic”
But this time, barring another twist of fate, it should be the right one. Paul Pogba, who has not played since September 3, 2023 and a Juventus match against Empoli, will finally wear the ASM jersey and expectations are inevitably immense.
“All I can say is that when he is on the pitch, I see someone happy and focused on getting back to the highest level. There is no doubt, added his coach. My role now is to help him with the staff. And if we can just make him smile during professional matches, it will be something fantastic,” said Sébastien Pocognoli.
“Will it be easy? I can’t say it. But we are working on it and Paul has great strength of character. And I think the head controls a lot of things,” he added, adding: “If Paul is used well, the group can benefit from his aura. »
