Paul Pogba: "I have mixed feelings because I don't like to lose"
He would certainly have preferred a different result for his return to competition. He came on in the last ten minutes: Paul Pogba returned to the pitch after more than two years of absence during AS Monaco’s defeat away to Rennes having played more than 30 minutes with a man down (4-1). After this difficult encounter, one which left him with contrasting feelings, the Monaco midfielder spoke in the mixed zone.🎙️
Hello Paul. We sensed you were emotional about your return to the pitch tonight…
I was primarily disappointed to lose this match. It’s true that my return was anticipated, but I’m a Monaco player and I hate losing, so it’s a very mixed feeling. Deep down, of course, I’m happy to be back playing competitively, but I’m frustrated with the result and what we did on the pitch. My first thought when I came on was to help the team score a goal and keep a clean sheet.
Were you expecting such a reception in an away stadium?
Honestly, no, I was really touched to see the crowd stand up and applaud. I truly didn’t imagine it, so a huge thank you to all the fans who were there and supported me; it was really moving!
🔥 Le grand frisson… Paul 𝗣𝗢𝗚𝗕𝗔 est de retour, avec une magnifique acclamation !#SRFCASM pic.twitter.com/Oulc7ulqk1
— L1+ (@ligue1plus) November 22, 2025
What were your feelings on the pitch?
They were good! I really wanted to bring positive energy, keep a clean sheet, and enjoy myself because it had been so long. I’m relieved to be back playing football, which is what I love most in the world! Now there’s still work to do to get back to full fitness, be able to play 90 minutes, and help the team as much as possible.
What was your feeling when you knew it was time?
I’d had that image in my mind for months! Months I’d been eagerly waiting to play. Of course, it wasn’t the scenario we wanted, but the coach gave me that chance. Someone else could have come on too, but he did it despite the result. I gave everything to help the team score a goal, which Mika Biereth ultimately did, and to keep a clean sheet.
Mika Biereth réduit l'écart ⚽
90+4' | 4️⃣-1️⃣ #SRFCASM pic.twitter.com/tQJjbyinjR
— AS Monaco 🇲🇨 (@AS_Monaco) November 22, 2025
Do you hope to get back to your previous level?
Of course, otherwise I would have ended my career! I’m a fighter, and for me, football isn’t over. We’re working hard. I waited over two years to come back, and today it’s finally happened. I always kept hope alive, and now we’re going to pursue new goals.
