Why was Paul Pogba left out of Monaco’s Champions League squad?

Fresh setback hits the midfielder’s troubled comeback

Why was Paul Pogba left out of Monaco’s Champions League squad?

Monaco removed Paul Pogba from their Champions League squad before the February play-off ties against Paris Saint-Germain.

Another blow for Pogba’s comeback

AS Monaco have dealt fresh setback to Paul Pogba by leaving him out of their squad for the knockout phase of Champions League.

The decision comes only days before Monaco face Paris Saint-Germain in the play-off round that will decide qualification for the round of 16.

Pogba, a World Cup winner with France in 2018 is still trying to restart his career after a long and difficult period away from football.

Suspension and injury problems continue

Pogba suspended after testing positive for banned substance in August 2023 while playing for Juventus.

An Italian court initially handed him a four-year ban in March 2024 but the midfielder successfully reduced the suspension to 18 month in November 2024.

Monaco signed Pogba in August 2025 on a two-year deal hoping he could bring experience and quality to their midfield.

However his first season in Ligue 1 has been disrupted by injuries and a lack of rhythm.

According to L’Équipe, Pogba is currently dealing with a calf injury and Monaco’s CEO Thiago Scuro has said no return date has been confirmed. Pogba played only three match so far for the club.

UEFA rules allow clubs to make changes to their European squads before the knockout rounds.

Monaco have now officially removed Pogba from the list they will submit for the rest of Champions League campaign.

The club also left out Takumi Minamino & Mohammed Salisu both sidelined with serious knee injuries.

Monaco added winter signing Wout Faes, along with Simon Adingra and Krépin Diatta as they prepare for the biggest matches of their season.

Monaco vs PSG in February

Monaco will face PSG in two play-off legs on 17 February and 25 February with the first match in Monaco and the return leg in Paris.

The winner will book a place in Champions League round of 16.

Without Pogba, Monaco will have to rely on other midfield options as they look to overcome the French champions.