Paul Pogba’s attempt to revive his career at AS Monaco has come to an early end after the Ligue 1 club confirmed his departure by mutual agreement.
Monaco announced on Wednesday that the 33-year-old midfielder’s contract, which had been due to run until June 2027, had been terminated after both sides concluded that the objectives set when he arrived had only been partially achieved.
Pogba joined Monaco in June 2025 on a two-year contract as he attempted to rebuild his career following a lengthy absence from competitive football.
The former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder had served an 18-month doping suspension before becoming eligible to play again in March 2025. He subsequently chose Monaco for what was intended to be a fresh start in Ligue 1.
However, his comeback was repeatedly disrupted by fitness problems.
Pogba managed only six competitive appearances for Monaco during the 2025/26 season, with just one of those coming as a starter. His total playing time amounted to only 115 minutes.
Another setback arrived during preparations for the new campaign when Pogba suffered a thigh injury. He is currently recovering from that problem after also dealing with a knee issue during pre-season.
Despite the difficulties, Monaco praised Pogba’s attitude and professionalism during his time at the club.
The club said both parties had recognised that the targets established at the beginning of their relationship had been only “partially achieved” before deciding to end the agreement ahead of Monaco’s first official match of the new season.
Pogba also thanked Monaco following confirmation of his departure, expressing his appreciation to the club’s management, staff, team-mates and supporters.
His exit leaves one of the most decorated French players of his generation searching for another club.
Pogba was a central figure in the France team that won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, scoring in the 4-2 final victory over Croatia.
At club level, he enjoyed his greatest success during his first spell with Juventus before Manchester United brought him back to Old Trafford in 2016 for a then world-record transfer fee. He returned to Juventus in 2022, but injuries and his subsequent suspension severely restricted his playing time.
The Monaco move was supposed to offer Pogba an opportunity to put those difficult years behind him, but persistent fitness problems prevented him from establishing himself in the team.
He now leaves the Principality as a free agent, meaning he can join another club without a transfer fee.
At 33, the next move could prove crucial as the World Cup winner decides where and how to continue a career that has been severely interrupted in recent seasons.
