Monaco expected to terminate Paul Pogba's contract

AS Monaco is preparing to end Paul Pogba’s contract, according to reports suggesting the Ligue 1 club will terminate the French midfielder’s agreement before the current season concludes. Pogba, 32, has been sidelined for much of the past year due to recurring injuries, casting doubt on his ability to contribute meaningfully during the remainder of the campaign. The decision comes amid ongoing discussions between Monaco and Pogba’s representatives regarding an early exit from the club. These talks are reportedly nearing completion, with both parties expected to reach an agreement shortly. Pogba joined Monaco on a free transfer in June 2025, following the termination of his contract with Juventus and a reduced doping ban. His move to Monaco was part of a broader effort to revive his career after a prolonged period away from competitive football. Pogba’s journey back to professional play began in March 2024, after a 18-month suspension imposed by anti-doping authorities was reduced. The initial ban, which followed a failed drug test in August 2023, had threatened to derail his career entirely. At the time, Pogba was playing for Juventus in the 2023-24 season, when he tested positive for DHEA, a substance used to increase endogenous testosterone levels. The Court of Arbitration for Sports upheld the original four-year ban, though it later shortened the penalty to 18 months, allowing Pogba to return to action. Despite regaining eligibility, Pogba struggled to find consistent form upon his return. He made his debut for Monaco in late 2024 but remained limited by persistent injuries throughout the season. As of September 2025, he had not participated in any competitive matches, raising concerns about his fitness and readiness to perform at the top level. Throughout his career, Pogba has established himself as one of Europe’s most accomplished midfielders. He began his professional journey with Manchester United in 2011, quickly becoming a key player for the club. His tenure at Old Trafford saw him win multiple honors, including the UEFA Europa League and the English League Cup in 2017. In 2016, he transferred to Juventus, where he became a central figure in the Italian champions' dominance, winning four consecutive Serie A titles. In 2022, Pogba returned to Manchester United, marking a second stint with the club. During his six-season spell, he made 233 appearances, scoring 39 goals and providing 51 assists. His performances earned him recognition as one of the best players in world football, though his career has been punctuated by setbacks, including the doping controversy that led to his suspension. With Monaco now considering ending his contract, Pogba faces yet another potential change in his career trajectory. While the exact terms of his departure remain undisclosed, the situation underscores the challenges faced by aging athletes trying to maintain relevance in elite football. The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether Pogba can continue competing at the highest level or must seek new opportunities elsewhere.