Paul Pogba has officially signed for Ligue 1 side AS Monaco on a free transfer, marking a dramatic return to top-flight football following an 18-month suspension. The former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder has penned a two-year contract and will wear the number 8 shirt for the Monegasques.
This move ends nearly two years on the sidelines for the 32-year-old, whose career was put on hold after testing positive for elevated testosterone levels in late 2023. Originally hit with a four-year ban, Pogba’s punishment was later reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, making a comeback possible.
While Saudi and MLS clubs were reportedly interested, and even Manchester City were linked in a shock winter approach, Monaco acted decisively to seal the deal. Pogba passed his medical on Saturday and was unveiled with a cinematic promotional video depicting a symbolic “rebirth.”
In the video, Pogba expressed his excitement, saying, “Rebirth. Like a kid all excited for the first day of school.” The announcement was accompanied by his confirmation as Monaco’s new number 8—previously worn by Aurelien Tchouameni, Youri Tielemans, and Joao Moutinho.
Though he previously wore No. 6 and No. 10 for France, Juventus, and Manchester United, this marks Pogba’s first senior campaign with the number 8 shirt.
His first competitive appearance could come in a symbolic Ligue 1 opener against Le Havre—the club where his football journey began. It also marks Pogba’s long-awaited Ligue 1 debut, having left France for Manchester United’s academy at just 16.
Monaco, who finished third in Ligue 1 last season, will hope Pogba’s experience and hunger to prove himself can boost their Champions League campaign.