Paul Pogba, 32, whose career has been significantly shaken by doping controversies, is seeking a return to the French stage. The destination candidate is AS Monaco.

French media 'Foot Mercato' and 'RMC Sport' reported on the 4th (Korean time) that "Paul Pogba has recently been proposed to AS Monaco. Currently without a club, he is looking for a new challenge, and Monaco is one of the clubs that received Pogba's proposal."

Pogba tested positive for a banned substance (DHEA) during the Serie A opener against Udinese in August 2023, resulting in a four-year suspension, and his contract with Juventus was terminated in November of the same year. He then appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and his suspension was reduced to 18 months, allowing him to participate in official matches from March this year.

He still does not have a club. Given that the player himself noted, "I will carefully choose a project," the prevailing interpretation is that he has not been actively pursuing opportunities in the market. Pogba has been staying in Miami, conducting personal training, and has been connected to several clubs, including Major League Soccer (MLS) club D.C. United.

The AS Monaco proposed this time is a traditional powerhouse representing France's Ligue 1, and they are currently looking to strengthen their midfield. It's interesting to note that Pogba has never actually played in Ligue 1 since leaving Le Havre before his professional debut. Especially, rumors of a connection with Olympique de Marseille have been persistently raised, but high weekly wages have been an obstacle, preventing progress.

Monaco is a club with relatively ample financial resources, and internal assessments indicating the need for experienced midfielders, given the competition for Champions League qualification, have also influenced this.

Pogba himself is also expressing a strong desire to return. In April, he stated through his social media, "I trained alone but never gave up. I still hold a dream of playing football." Although his last match appearance was on September 3, 2023, against Empoli, he mentioned, "I want to return to the daily life of a professional footballer," setting realistic goals by also mentioning participation in the 2026 North American World Cup.

Of course, no signs have yet been detected that Monaco is actively pursuing Pogba's acquisition. Reports indicate that only a proposal has been delivered, and negotiations have not yet begun in earnest. However, the return of a World Cup-winning player, who has regained his fitness, could have a significant impact not only on Monaco but also on the entire Ligue 1.

Pogba's career still holds uncertainties regarding its potential for recovery. Moreover, the possibility that his return stage will be his home country, France, is gradually becoming a reality.

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