AS Monaco supporters were once again left disappointed after marquee summer arrivals Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati were omitted from the matchday squad for the club’s recent pre-season fixture against Nottingham Forest. Despite hopes that the high-profile duo would make their debuts at the weekend, neither player featured as Monaco marched on with their pre-season preparations.
Pogba has joined Monaco after serving his doping banThe midfielder is yet to make debutNo timeline on his potential return to actionFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Pogba, the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder, and Fati, previously on the books at Barcelona, arrived at Monaco this summer to much fanfare. However, their impact on the field is yet to be seen. Hutter had already hinted last week that the pair were struggling to reach optimal fitness levels amid limited competitive action in the recent past. The coach has urged patience, insisting that both stars will be eased into action at the appropriate time rather than being rushed.
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Saturday’s match against Nottingham Forest was seen by many as a potential opportunity to finally catch a glimpse of Pogba and Fati in action in Monaco colours. Yet, when the team sheets were released, it was clear that the wait would continue.
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For Pogba, the situation marks another chapter in a long and frustrating battle to get back to playing. After serving his doping ban of 18 months, the 2018 World Cup winner struggled to find new employers but was ultimately bailed out by Monaco, who are determined to upgrade their roster before taking on Europe's elites in the Champions League next season.
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Monaco still have two pre-season friendlies remaining before they kick off their Ligue 1 campaign. The squad is scheduled to face Arminia Bielefeld on July 26, followed by a clash with Ajax on August 3. These two fixtures could represent the final opportunities for Pogba and Fati to gain a few minutes under their belt before the club’s season opener against Le Havre on August 17.
