Paul Pogba Left Out of Monaco Squad for Nottingham Forest Friendly

Stark Admission About Fitness Casts Doubt Over Summer Comeback

AS Monaco’s much-anticipated pre-season clash with Nottingham Forest brought excitement to fans in the stands—but also a wave of disappointment. Hopes were high that newly acquired stars Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati would finally make their club debuts. However, both marquee signings were omitted from the matchday squad, sparking renewed questions about their fitness and readiness just weeks before the Ligue 1 campaign kicks off.

What Happened to Pogba and Fati?

Pogba, the 2018 World Cup-winning midfielder, and Fati, once hailed as Lionel Messi’s heir at Barcelona, arrived in the principality amid huge expectations. But manager Adolf Hütter’s team sheet against Forest was conspicuously missing the pair, who remain in the process of regaining full match sharpness after extended spells away from competitive football.

Speaking after the match, Hütter doubled down on previous warnings: “We know their quality, no doubt. But after what both players have been through—injuries, lack of game time, or in Paul’s case, a very complicated personal chapter—we can’t rush it. We want them ready for the long haul, not just one friendly.”

The Bigger Picture

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Saturday’s game was seen as a potential showcase, a chance for Monaco fans to catch a glimpse of what the new signings could bring. For Pogba in particular, it represented an opportunity to rewrite his narrative after an 18-month doping suspension cast a long shadow over his glittering yet inconsistent career. Many fans had already taken to social media in the days leading up to the game, speculating that this would be the moment he reintroduces himself to European football.

But Monaco’s coaching staff held firm in their cautious approach, leaving the Frenchman out altogether, along with the similarly undercooked Ansu Fati.

Did You Know?

Paul Pogba’s current absence isn’t just due to match fitness. Following his doping ban, Pogba had to rebuild his career almost from scratch. For months, the former Manchester United and Juventus playmaker found himself without a club, training alone while his future remained uncertain. Monaco eventually stepped in, offering him a chance to reignite his career—though the road back to elite performance was never going to be easy.

As for Ansu Fati, the Spanish winger endured a tough stint at Brighton on loan from Barcelona last season, managing only a handful of appearances due to recurring injuries. While Monaco are confident both players can add depth and dynamism to the squad, their integration has been deliberately delayed to ensure longevity throughout the grueling Ligue 1 season and potential Champions League campaign.

Fans Frustrated, But Realistic

The reaction from Monaco fans has been mixed. On one hand, supporters are eager to see their new stars in action. On the other, many understand the risks of rushing players back prematurely—especially when those players have a history of injury or long layoffs.

One fan posted on X (formerly Twitter): “We’ve waited this long for Pogba and Fati—we can wait a few more weeks if it means they’ll actually stay fit for once.”

Another noted: “I get the frustration, but we’ve seen too many careers derailed by pushing too soon. Let them build properly.”

New Faces, New Challenges

Hütter has made it clear that Monaco are not simply a rehabilitation centre for players looking to rebuild their reputations. The club has ambitious plans for 2025-26. With the addition of Pogba and Fati to an already promising squad, they are aiming to not just compete in Ligue 1 but also make a real splash in Europe.

However, the absence of their biggest summer names so far underscores the complexity of modern football. Big names attract headlines—but also require big patience.

What Comes Next for Pogba and Monaco?

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Time is running out to get Pogba and Fati some much-needed minutes before the competitive season begins. Monaco are set to face Arminia Bielefeld on July 26 and Ajax on August 3 in their final two pre-season outings. These matches are now viewed as potential proving grounds for the returning duo.

Fitness coach Christian Matters has been working closely with Pogba and Fati, tailoring individual plans that combine endurance, agility, and tactical drills. According to internal sources, Pogba has responded well in training but is still being carefully monitored for any signs of strain or relapse.

Fati, meanwhile, has been actively participating in non-contact drills and is expected to join full-team training within the next 10 days.

Season Opener Looms

All eyes now turn to August 17, when Monaco host Le Havre at the Stade Louis-II for their Ligue 1 curtain-raiser. Whether Pogba or Fati are involved remains to be seen, but the hope within the camp is that both will be fit enough to at least make the bench.

Hütter remains optimistic: “These are two of the most talented players of their generation. If we manage their return carefully, they could be game-changers—not just for us, but for Ligue 1.”

Final Thoughts

While it’s easy to feel impatient when high-profile signings are sidelined, Monaco’s cautious approach to reintegrating Pogba and Fati could prove to be the wisest strategy. After all, seasons aren’t won in pre-season—but they can be lost if players are overextended too early.

Monaco may have been without their stars against Nottingham Forest, but with time, patience, and a careful plan, Pogba and Fati could yet become the heartbeat of a team aiming to disrupt the balance of power in French and European football.