Paul Pogba details mental struggles after making return for Monaco
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has revealed the extent of his mental struggles after making his first start for Monaco following an 18-month ban and persistent injury problems.
The French World Cup winner started for the Ligue 1 side against Metz at the weekend.
It marked a significant milestone for the midfielder, who has endured a turbulent period since leaving Old Trafford.
Injuries severely restricted his second spell at Juventus to just 12 appearances before a routine drugs test failure in September 2023.
Initially handed a four-year suspension from football, the Court of Arbitration for Sport eventually reduced the punishment to 18 months.
Overcoming mental hurdles
Attempting to rebuild his career in the French top flight, the veteran has been restricted to just six appearances for Monaco.
Persistent fitness issues have continued to disrupt his progress at the Stade Louis II.
Speaking to Ligue 1 Plus, the former international admitted he came close to walking away from the sport completely.
“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?’ And actually, it’s about time and patience. You have to have the patience to keep going and not give up.”
A determination to repay supporters
The ex-Juventus star credited his close support network for guiding him through his lowest moments.
He highlighted the positive reception from fans as a crucial motivating factor in his long road to recovery.
“I was lucky to have people around me, whether it was my family or close friends, who would say to me, ‘What are you talking about?’”
“When I see the messages, whether on social media or when I arrive at the stadiums, they applaud.”
With just over a year remaining on his current contract, Monaco chief executive Thiago Scuro has acknowledged that discussions regarding his long-term future are necessary.
Scuro emphasised that while the marquee signing brings substantial commercial value to the club, consistent on-pitch performance remains the ultimate priority.
However, the combative midfielder insists he is not content with merely making up the numbers.
“I can’t stop here. I want to give that love and joy back to the people.”