Paul Pogba Reveals His Bold 2026 World Cup Dreams for France
Paul Pogba acknowledged that his forthcoming displays for Monaco will decide whether he can rejoin the France squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The ex-Manchester United playmaker participated in his first competitive match in 26 months on Saturday, featuring for five minutes plus added time during Monaco's 4–1 loss to Rennes. Pogba successfully completed 14 out of 15 passes and dominated all his individual battles in the Ligue 1 encounter, distributing the ball effectively from deep midfield positions while the result was already settled.
This short appearance signaled a triumphant return to action for the French star, who received a four-year anti-doping suspension in 2023 following a positive test for DHEA, a prohibited substance that elevates testosterone production. Pogba's punishment was subsequently shortened to 18 months, though fitness issues prevented his return until November 2025.
With the 32-year-old finally making his anticipated comeback, speculation centers on whether he will participate in next summer's World Cup. However, Pogba acknowledged he remains far from completing a full match, much less earning a recall to Les Blues.
"I'm nowhere near that level," he commented regarding playing the full duration. "My concentration is on regaining match fitness to contribute to the squad. Without strong performances at Monaco, I must abandon thoughts of representing France."
Pogba aims to assist Monaco in ending their two-match losing run with a Champions League fixture against Pafos on Wednesday. The French club subsequently faces current domestic and European titleholders Paris Saint-Germain this weekend.
France Eye World Cup Redemption
France ranks among the leading contenders for the 2026 World Cup, alongside Spain and Argentina. Didier Deschamps's squad would relish reclaiming their title after falling short in a penalty shootout against La Albiceleste during the 2022 World Cup final.
Pogba was absent from Qatar for Les Bleus due to a knee problem. Should he miss out once more next summer, the midfielder likely competed in his final World Cup match for France when he contributed to his nation's triumph in 2018.
His decisive goal in the 59th minute against Croatia secured Les Bleus' second World Cup championship. Four years afterward, he could only observe as Lionel Messi guided Argentina to victory at France's cost.
Despite Pogba's absence, Deschamps maintains confidence in Real Madrid pair Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga, along with Manu Koné and potentially N'Golo Kanté, to stabilize his midfield across the United States, Canada and Mexico.