Paul Pogba Sparks Manchester United Reaction as AS Monaco Move Nears Following Ban Reduction
Paul Pogba has ignited a wave of reaction among Manchester United fans on social media amid reports linking him with a surprise return to Ligue 1 with AS Monaco. The former Red Devils midfielder, whose career has been riddled with injuries and off-field headlines in recent years, is reportedly eyeing a comeback to top-level football now that his suspension has been lifted.
Pogba, once the world’s most expensive player following his £89 million return to Manchester United from Juventus in 2016, has had a tumultuous few years. After leaving United on a free transfer in 2022 to rejoin Juventus, things didn’t go according to plan. Persistent injuries plagued his second stint in Turin, and his situation worsened last year when he tested positive for the banned substance DHEA — a hormone that can artificially boost testosterone levels.
Initially handed a four-year ban, Pogba’s future in football appeared to be in serious jeopardy. However, following a successful appeal, the ban was reduced significantly, allowing him to resume his professional career far sooner than expected. With Juventus parting ways with the 31-year-old in November 2024, the French international is now free to sign with another club as a free agent.
AS Monaco have emerged as the leading contenders for his signature, with the principality club reportedly holding talks with Pogba’s representatives in recent weeks. Monaco are said to be keen on offering the World Cup winner a fresh start, seeing his experience and flair as valuable assets in their midfield rebuild.
The potential move has not gone unnoticed by Manchester United supporters, many of whom still hold mixed emotions about Pogba’s time at Old Trafford. While some fans praised his talent and influence during key moments — including the 2017 UEFA Europa League final victory and multiple Player of the Month awards — others have been more critical of his inconsistency and injury record during his six-year spell with the club.
Despite the divided opinions, Pogba’s name still resonates strongly with the United fanbase. Social media was abuzz following news of his possible Monaco transfer, with many supporters wishing him well and expressing hope that he can rediscover the form that once made him one of the most exciting midfielders in the world. Others remain skeptical, reflecting on the drama and off-field distractions that sometimes overshadowed his footballing contributions.
What remains clear, however, is that Pogba’s story in football is far from over. A move to Monaco could provide the perfect backdrop for a redemption arc — away from the intense scrutiny of Manchester and Turin, and back in a familiar league where he first rose to prominence during his early years at Le Havre and with the French national youth teams.
Monaco, currently looking to re-establish themselves among Ligue 1’s elite, could benefit greatly from Pogba’s leadership, creativity, and experience. The Frenchman, in turn, would find a more supportive and low-pressure environment to rebuild his career, both physically and mentally.
While it’s uncertain how quickly Pogba can return to peak form after such a prolonged absence from competitive football, the reduced ban has opened a door many thought would remain closed. A successful spell at Monaco could even reignite discussions about a potential return to the French national team in the future.
As the summer transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Paul Pogba finalizes a deal with Monaco and how he fares in his second chance at the top level. For Manchester United fans, it’s a bittersweet moment — a reminder of what could have been, and a hope that one of their most talked-about former stars finds his rhythm again on the football stage.
