Why is Paul Pogba not playing against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League? When will he make his Monaco debut?

React to this story

Once the world's most expensive footballer, Paul Pogba has disappeared from the spotlight but is attempting to work his way back to the top with Monaco. He was released by Juventus after failing a drugs test but the Ligue 1 side have taken a chance on the former Manchester United midfielder. However, he is yet to play for them, and we have taken a look at the reasons why.

Pogba signing 'great' for Monaco and Ligue 1 as whole - Dier

Video credit: TNT Sports

Paul Pogba joined Monaco in the summer, but he is still yet to play for the club and will not be involved when they take on Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night.

At one time, the Frenchman was amongst the game’s most sought-after players, but a turbulent period has seen him fall away from the spotlight.

He has now been given the chance to reinvigorate his career, but he is being made to wait for his return to the game.

Transfers

Atleti rival Arsenal for Romero, Barca yet to meet Rodri valuation - Paper Round

4 hours ago

We have taken a closer look at Pogba’s story and explained why Monaco are being cautious with their high-profile summer signing.

What happened to Paul Pogba?

When he rejoined Manchester United from Juventus in 2016, Pogba became the world’s most expensive footballer in a record-breaking £89 million move.

He won the UEFA Europa League and League Cup during his time at Old Trafford and earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year with his performances in the 2018/19 campaign.

Highlights: Haaland breaks another record to lead Man City past De Bruyne’s Napoli

Video credit: TNT Sports

After six years in Manchester, Pogba returned to Turin, but injuries hampered his second spell with the Italian giants, and then a failed drugs test led to him being released.

After testing positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the France international was handed a four-year suspension.

This was reduced to 18 months on appeal, and Monaco stepped in to offer him a way back into the game.

Paul Pogba

Image credit: Getty Images

Why has Pogba not played for Monaco yet?

Despite taking a chance on Pogba, Monaco were clear from the outset that he would not be thrown straight into action.

Speaking in July, the club’s general director, Thiago Scuro, said: "We expect a three-month process. High-level sport is a lot about science and it is not easy.

"Monaco is one of the most intense teams in Ligue 1 and play a style that requires him to be fit."

Pogba was happy with this cautious approach from his new employers. After signing, he said: "I definitely want to get back on the pitch, but I can’t be in too much of a hurry.

"Sometimes kids want things right away, but management told me they’d take the time to get me in top shape. I’m here first and foremost to help the team, but I won’t be able to do it at 50%.

"So I really want to take the time I need to contribute and listen to the club.

"I’m really determined once again to get a feel for the pitch and the ball again, but we’ll take the time we need for that."

Paul Pogba

Image credit: Getty Images

When will Pogba make his debut?

Speaking ahead of the Champions League match against Pep Guardiola's side, Monaco head coach Adi Hutter confirmed Pogba would not be involved.

"We are following his plan," Hutter said.

"We expected him maybe for the game against Nice [on Sunday] in the squad, but I think we have to postpone it for the game against Angers [on October 18] maybe.

"At the moment he's doing more of the warming up, and also in small-sided games. Now he's increasing a lot, he's doing well at the moment, and I hope after the national team break he can be a part of the squad."

Stream the Premier League, Men’s and Women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+

Transfers