Pogba World Cup Hopes Remain Alive as Sagna Backs Shock Recall

Pogba World Cup Comeback: France’s Surprise Option?

Pogba World Cup hopes are far from over, according to former France defender Bacary Sagna, who has tipped the Monaco midfielder for a sensational return to Didier Deschamps’ squad for the 2026 World Cup. Despite a challenging period that saw Pogba serve an 18-month doping ban and endure months out of competitive action, his experience and unique skill set keep him in the conversation as France prepare for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Monaco Rebuilds Pogba’s Career After Doping Ban

Once considered a mainstay for Les Bleus, Paul Pogba’s international career seemed destined for even greater heights before his suspension in September 2023. The then-Juventus midfielder was handed a four-year ban after failing a doping test, only to have the sentence reduced on appeal. With his contract at Juventus terminated, Pogba spent several months as a free agent before Monaco offered him a lifeline, facilitating his return to Ligue 1 and, potentially, the international stage.

Fitness Struggles and Return to Action

Pogba has managed only three appearances for Monaco since his comeback, highlighting concerns about his match fitness ahead of the World Cup. With 91 caps for France, the 32-year-old midfielder remains short of the coveted 100-cap milestone, but Sagna believes he should not be discounted. “He doesn’t need to run a lot. Mentally and technically he is ahead of the normal. Every time there is a list, there is always a surprise. He could be the surprise of Didier Deschamps,” Sagna told GOAL, emphasizing Pogba’s intelligence and technical prowess.

Can Pogba World Cup Dreams Become Reality?

Despite the long lay-off and physical challenges, Sagna insists Pogba’s special qualities make him an asset to any squad. “He needs to get back into condition, but I would not rule him out,” Sagna added. He referenced players like Sergio Busquets, who excel through smart positional play rather than relentless running, suggesting Pogba could fulfill a similar role for France.

Competition for Places in Deschamps’ Squad

Not everyone shares Sagna’s optimism. Frank Leboeuf, France’s 1998 World Cup winner, is less convinced, highlighting Pogba’s age and lack of recent playing time. “If Paul can come back to his best, which I doubt because it is complicated after such a long time without playing football… It’s going to be hard for Didier Deschamps,” Leboeuf commented, giving Pogba a “five percent chance” of making the squad.

France’s World Cup Group and Pogba’s Potential Role

France enter the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites, drawn in Group I alongside Senegal, Norway, and the winner of an inter-confederation play-off. With Deschamps known for valuing experience, the potential inclusion of Pogba could offer invaluable leadership and technical quality to a squad already brimming with talent.

Pogba’s Mentality and the Road Ahead

Sagna’s faith in Pogba comes from direct experience, recalling the midfielder’s positive influence on the team and younger players. While Pogba’s path back to full fitness is challenging, the next three months could prove pivotal. The focus is now on whether he can earn significant playing time at Monaco, regain sharpness, and force his way into Deschamps’ plans before the final squad is announced.

Opinion: Realism and Sentiment in Pogba’s World Cup Bid

Pogba’s journey is a testament to resilience, but sentiment alone shouldn’t dictate World Cup selection. While his tactical intelligence and experience are undeniable assets, modern international football demands top fitness and consistency. If Pogba can prove his form with Monaco in the closing months of the season, a recall could be justified. However, France’s depth in midfield means he’ll need to show not just flashes of brilliance, but sustained excellence to truly earn his place in Deschamps’ squad.

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