Paul Pogba and AS Monaco announced a mutual contract termination on August 19, 2026, ending their agreement one year early from its original June 2027 expiration date [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. The 33-year-old midfielder joined the club in June 2025 after serving an 18-month doping ban, reduced from an initial four years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport [1, 2, 5, 6].
Pogba appeared in just six Ligue 1 matches for Monaco in the 2025-26 season, totaling approximately 115 minutes on the pitch. He registered no goals or assists during that time [1, 2, 3, 5, 6]. His limited playing time was hampered by multiple injuries, including knee and hamstring problems, which disrupted his fitness and performance throughout the campaign [1, 2, 3, 7, 5, 6].
Despite these setbacks, Monaco praised Pogba’s mindset, determination, and positive influence on the squad. The club’s CEO Thiago Scuro said, "When [Pogba] joined, we explained that this was a major challenge, that was audacious and ambitious. While the outcome is not what we had hoped for, it should not overshadow the enthusiasm that surrounded his return to club football" [1]. In its statement, Monaco added that the player and club "have decided, ahead of the first match of the new season, to end the contract" as the original objectives were only partially met [6].
Pogba, a 2018 World Cup winner with France who made 91 international appearances, also played for Manchester United and Juventus earlier in his career [1, 2, 5, 6]. He reflected on his time at Monaco, saying, "Representing this club and the principality was an incredible experience. AS Monaco is an incredible club and although I did not play as many games as I had hoped, I will always be grateful for the opportunity to wear their colours" [1]. He also thanked the club’s president, management, teammates, staff, and fans for their support [3].
Reports suggest Pogba is attracting interest from MLS teams including Inter Miami and DC United as he looks for his next club [1, 5].
