Paul Pogba marked his long-awaited return to professional football after 811 days on the sidelines, making his debut for AS Monaco in their 4–1 loss to Stade Rennes at Roazhon Park.
The 32-year-old midfielder entered the match in the 85th minute, receiving a warm ovation from fans despite Monaco’s heavy defeat. Pogba’s last competitive appearance was on September 3, 2023, for Juventus against Empoli, before a doping suspension and subsequent injuries kept him away from the pitch. His ban was reduced to 19 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, allowing him to sign with Monaco in the summer of 2025.
The match itself was dominated by Rennes, who capitalized on Monaco’s defensive lapses and the dismissal of captain Denis Zakaria. Rennes’ relentless attack left Monaco struggling, with the red card shifting momentum decisively in favor of the home side.
Despite the scoreline, Pogba’s return was the emotional highlight of the evening. The French World Cup winner was visibly moved as he stepped back onto the field, symbolizing resilience after a difficult period defined by setbacks. Supporters applauded his perseverance, acknowledging the significance of his comeback even in defeat.
Monaco manager Sébastien Pocognoli expressed optimism about Pogba’s role in the team moving forward, noting that his experience and leadership could help stabilize the squad during a challenging season. Rennes, meanwhile, celebrated a commanding victory that reinforced their ambitions in Ligue 1.
Pogba’s return represents not only a personal triumph but also a potential turning point for Monaco, who continue to battle inconsistency. His presence is expected to boost morale and provide depth to the club from recent struggles.