Paul Pogba made his first start in 1,084 days for AS Monaco in a 2-1 win over Metz on May 3, 2026, according to GiveMeSport. The 33-year-old French international. Who signed with Monaco in June 2025, touched the ball 52 times, completed 36 of 46 passes (78%), and lost possession 11 times, according to statistics from SofaScore. He failed to hit the target with his two shots, won one tackle, made five ball recoveries, and won two of four ground duels and two of three aerial duels. Pogba was replaced by Aladji Bamba after 57 minutes.

Physical Decline and Mental Struggle

Pogba’s return to the starting XI was preceded by a long period of injury struggles and mental health challenges; he missed most of the 2025–26 season with Monaco, appearing in only six matches, according to SPORTbible. Speaking to French outlet Footmercato. Pogba admitted he considered retiring due to the mental toll of his injuries and off-field pressures. He said, ‘Honestly, there were times when I was like, ‘That’s it, it’s getting on my nerves.’ I do everything, I come, I’m here, and it doesn’t stop, it just keeps going. I was thinking, ‘What more do I have to do to avoid all this?’

Monaco’s sporting director Thiago Scuro confirmed the team’s ongoing difficulties with Pogba’s fitness. According to SPORT BILD, Pogba has played just three games this season, all as a substitute, and has dealt with injuries to his thigh, ankle, and now his calf. Scuro said, ‘It is clear that the program and the plan for Paul are not working as we initially imagined. All of us are working hard to find a solution — both the club and Paul. He is very affected by the fact that he has to fight to be more available and to increase his playing time.’

Fan Reaction and Form Prospects

Pogba’s performance against Metz sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some fans noted a decline in his physical attributes, while others praised his technical ability. One fan wrote, ‘Pogba still has the IQ but his legs are gone sadly,’ while another said, ‘Washed physically, but he really does have good IQ and looks to play good passes.’ Others expressed cautious optimism: ‘Not bad. Needs a lot of game time to get back. Physically, he’s clearly off,’ and ‘He’s slower and rustier than regular Pogba, but with more playing time he’ll get back on form.’

Despite the mixed feedback, Pogba’s showing has led to speculation about his World Cup prospects. One fan suggested, ‘Wish Deschamps gives Pogba a call-up. Imagine him and Cherki creating for Olise, Dembele and Mbappe,’ according to SPORTbible. Pogba’s highlights from the match went viral, with fans celebrating his return to the field.

Background and Career Context

Paul Labile Pogba, born on March 15, 1993, in Lagny-sur-Marne, France, is the son of a Guinean father and a Congolese mother. He began his youth career at US Roissy en Brie and is the brother of Florentin and Mathias Pogba. Pogba won the Golden Boy Award in 2013 as the best U21 player in Europe. According to Transfermarkt, he signed with AS Monaco in July 2025 and has a contract until June 30, 2027. His last start prior to this match was in April 2023 while at Juventus.

On May 3, Pogba played alongside Lamine Camara in midfield for Monaco, which currently sits seventh in Ligue 1 with 51 points, according to OneFootball. His return to regular play will be key to determining whether he can regain his place in the France national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.