Pogba set for long-awaited Monaco debut after doping ban

Paul Pogba is set to make his first appearance since his doping ban when Monaco take on Rennes in Ligue 1 this weekend.

The French midfielder last played a competitive match in September 2023, featuring for Juventus in a Serie A match against Empoli.

The midfielder made just six league appearances in his second spell with Juventus before being provisionally banned for four years after a positive test for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in February 2024, following a doping test in August 2023.

His ban was reduced to 19 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while he also recently recovered from an ankle injury that delayed his return.

The 32-year-old has now been named in Monaco's squad for their trip to Rennes, with his side currently sixth in Ligue 1.

Monaco boss Sebastien Pocognoli believes Pogba will provide a massive boost on and off the pitch for the French club.

"We try to help him reach his full potential so that the team comes out on top," Pocognoli said of Pogba.

"He has the qualities to adapt to what we want to implement in midfield – he hasn't lost his vision or his technique.

"[He will bring] experience and leadership, both on and off the pitch, not to mention his qualities which will need to adapt to the pace of competition."

In his final season with Manchester United (2021-22), Pogba registered nine assists from 24 created chances, while also scoring once.

This is the first time he will play in the French top-flight, having only previously represented Juventus and Man United in his professional career.