JAKARTA - Paul Pogba said that he hopes to return to the French National Team (Timnas). He mentioned that there were stages in the process when he was officially introduced by AS Monaco as a new player on Thursday, July 3, 2025, local time.
The former Manchester United and Juventus midfielders signed a contract with the Ligue 1 club on a free transfer after serving a 18-month doping ban.
He tested positive for DHEA, which increased testosterone levels, resulting in the punishment.
"It is the desire of every French football player to represent the French national team, but there are stages," Pogba said when introduced in Monaco.
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The player who helped Les Bleus win the 2018 World Cup has made 91 appearances for France, the last to take place in March 2022. While the club's last appearance was for Juventus in September 2023.
He signed a two-year contract at Monaco in a bid to revive his career.
ESPN reported that the 32-year-old turned down a lucrative offer from the Saudi Arabian Pro League team for the sake of AS Monaco.
"Today I'm in the first stage, come back and perform well. There is a place to win and you have to get it because it's a very, very good group, a great team," he said.
Pogba's team-mate and former Tottenham Hotspur defender Eric Dier - also introduced by Monaco as a new player - talked about his excitement as he returned to French football.
"I think (Pogba's arrival at AS Monaco), of course, is very encouraging for the club. I think for the French league in general."
"I've played against Paul a lot. I know how great he is. I think everyone is. I love seeing him play football again and can see him up close too, that's better," Dier told French media.
Monaco finished third last season and expect Pogba, Dier, and Ansu Fati's signings from Barcelona will allow them to challenge Paris-Saint Germain in the race for Ligue 1 2025/2026.
"Everyone knows how great Paul Pogba is, I am very happy he joined Monaco."
"I think the whole world of football is happy to see him again. He is one of the best players wherever he plays, both for the club and the country."
"I wish we had a great year together to help bring the club back to where it should be."
"Seeing him here is a dream because he is a player I have admired since I was a child."
"When I was at La Masia, he was an idol for my friends and I. Everyone talked about him and wanted to know as much as possible about him."
"So, being able to play with him is something extraordinary and I hope to enjoy it as much as possible," said Fati.
Pogba won four league titles and two Italian Cups with Juventus and Europa League during his time at Manchester United.
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