Paul Pogba is stepping back into the spotlight after his doping suspension, having inked a two-year deal with AS Monaco. At 32, this is more than just a transfer — it’s a shot at redemption.
The Frenchman’s return adds experience and star power to a Monaco squad already sprinkled with familiar names, especially for fans of English football.
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Here’s a look at seven players with Premier League pasts who will now be lining up alongside Pogba in the Principality.
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Mika Biereth
Not instantly recognizable? You’re not alone. But Biereth, 21, has been quietly carving out a reputation as a relentless forward with a physical edge.
After emerging from Arsenal’s youth ranks, he impressed during a spell at Motherwell in 2023–24 with his aggressive pressing and fearless attitude. His loan stint in Austria with Sturm Graz added silverware to his resume — a league and cup double — before Monaco picked him up in early 2025.
Biereth brings grit, pace, and power to the front line. He may still be developing, but there’s no question he’ll be up for any challenge — even if that means calling out Pogba during training.
Mohammed Salisu
Salisu was one of those players at Southampton who could leave fans breathless — either from a brilliant block or a baffling mistake.
The Ghanaian centre-back made over 60 appearances for the Saints and was known for his brave challenges, physical strength, and the occasional lapse in concentration that made him a rollercoaster to watch.
After an injury-hit spell, he left the Premier League in 2023 for Monaco in a deal worth roughly £12 million. When fully fit and focused, Salisu has the tools to dominate defensively — though fans will hope his best self shows up more often than not.
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Thilo Kehrer
A versatile and seasoned defender, Kehrer adds depth and maturity to the Monaco backline. He began at Schalke, rose to prominence with PSG (winning three Ligue 1 titles), and then joined West Ham, playing a key part in their 2023 Europa Conference League triumph.
Fluent in French, English, and German — thanks to his roots in Burundi and Rwanda — Kehrer could serve as a vital off-field bridge for Pogba as well. On the pitch, his flexibility across multiple defensive positions gives Monaco plenty of tactical options.
>> This 1-minute video explains everything about Rashford’s move to Barcelona
Denis Zakaria
Zakaria’s brief stint at Chelsea in 2022–23 wasn’t exactly headline-grabbing. On loan from Juventus, the Swiss international scored on his Champions League debut but was used sparingly amid a chaotic season for the Blues.
Prior to that, he’d built a solid career at Borussia Mönchengladbach and Juventus as a mobile, ball-winning midfielder. Since arriving at Monaco in 2023, he’s become a fixture in the middle of the park — not flashy, but consistent and reliable. A perfect partner for Pogba if the Frenchman can stay healthy and focused.
Ansu Fati
Once hailed as Barcelona’s next superstar and handed the iconic No. 10 jersey post-Messi, Fati’s rise was unfortunately derailed by repeated injuries.
A loan move to Brighton in 2024 gave him some minutes, though he largely came off the bench. He showed glimpses of his electric ability but lacked rhythm.
Still just 22, his move to Monaco is a chance to rebuild. With his pace, creativity, and unpredictability, Fati remains a dangerous asset — if his body holds up. Pogba, no stranger to injury setbacks himself, will likely find a kindred spirit in the young Spaniard.
Folarin Balogun
Balogun lit up Ligue 1 with Reims during a standout loan season, leading many to believe he could challenge for a starting role at Arsenal. Instead, the Gunners cashed in, selling him to Monaco for around £35 million.
While he’s yet to fully recapture that form, Balogun has shown moments of brilliance. Seven goals in his first season hinted at his potential, though consistency and decision-making remain areas for growth.
Now 23, he still has time to elevate his game — especially if Pogba can provide service and structure from midfield.
>> This 1-minute video explains everything about Rashford’s move to Barcelona
Takumi Minamino
Minamino may not have been a regular starter at Liverpool, but he earned admiration for his professionalism and knack for delivering when it counted — including nine goals during the 2021–22 season and contributions in cup wins.
After leaving for Monaco in 2022, it took some time for him to settle, but he enjoyed a stellar 2024–25 campaign, recording double figures in both goals and assists.
Now 30, the Japanese international is a creative link between midfield and attack. Though unlikely to join in any of Pogba’s flamboyant dressing room routines, he brings a quiet, technical brilliance to the team.
Final Word
Monaco’s squad is a fascinating mix of rising prospects, revival projects, and experienced internationals. Pogba’s return adds an extra layer of intrigue to a team brimming with familiar faces — each looking to carve out their next chapter.
>> This 1-minute video explains everything about Rashford’s move to Barcelona