Monaco CEO Admits Frustration as Pogba Injury Problems Continue

Monaco’s hopes of reviving Paul Pogba’s career have stalled, with the club’s chief executive admitting growing frustration as the midfielder’s injury troubles continue to limit his impact following his high profile arrival last summer.

Pogba joined the Ligue 1 side in June on a two year deal after completing an 18 month doping ban, but the former World Cup winner has managed just three appearances this season, totalling 30 minutes of action as repeated fitness issues derail his comeback.

The optimism that followed his unveiling has faded quickly. Pogba had not played competitive football since September 2023 during his final spell at Juventus, yet there was belief that the 32 year old could gradually rebuild form and presence in a Monaco side aiming to compete on multiple fronts.

Instead, setbacks have followed one another. A series of minor injuries have restricted his availability, with a calf problem now ruling him out of Friday night’s league clash against Lorient. His last appearance came in December, leaving his role within the squad increasingly uncertain.

The situation comes at a difficult moment for Monaco. The club sits ninth in Ligue 1 after losing six of their last seven matches and is currently 19th in the Champions League standings, where consistency has been hard to find.

Chief executive Thiago Scuro acknowledged the difficulties this week, conceding that the rehabilitation plan has not delivered the expected results. He explained that constant adjustments have been required as new physical issues emerged, complicating efforts to get Pogba match ready.

Monaco’s struggles have been mirrored on the pitch. The Stade Louis II atmosphere has shifted from excitement to concern, with supporters still waiting to see Pogba influence games in open play rather than from the sidelines. His brief cameos have offered little opportunity to assess how he might fit into the team’s midfield balance.

There have been no major on field incidents involving Pogba this season, largely because his appearances have been limited to late substitutions. The lack of rhythm has prevented him from building momentum or confidence, while the medical staff continue to manage his workload cautiously.

With so little game time, there have been no defining goals or decisive moments to highlight. Pogba’s contributions so far have been confined to short spells, flashes of movement, and controlled passes rather than the authority that once defined his game.

As the season progresses, Monaco’s focus remains on stabilising results while monitoring Pogba’s condition. Tactical adjustments have been made in midfield to compensate for his absence, with younger players asked to shoulder responsibility during a demanding schedule.

The late season narrative could yet shift. There is still a slim chance Pogba returns before the end of January, potentially setting up an emotional meeting with former club Juventus in Monaco’s final Champions League league phase fixture, provided his recovery accelerates.

For now, the uncertainty extends beyond the current campaign. Pogba’s contract contains clauses that complicate any immediate decision on his future, and the club has signalled that discussions will be deferred until the summer if progress remains slow.

The stakes are personal as well as professional. Pogba’s last appearance for France came in 2022, and with the 2026 World Cup approaching, time is running out for a return to international contention. Monaco remain committed to the process, but patience is being tested as the comeback continues to drift out of reach.