Sébastien Pocognoli refuses to set timeline on Paul Pogba’s Monaco return | OneFootball

Sébastien Pocognoli has declined to set a timeline on Paul Pogba’s return, with the AS Monaco midfielder sidelined since December by a calf issue. According to Nice-Matin, he stayed vague in Thursday’s media call, held 48 hours before the trip to Lens on Saturday 21 February at 17:00.

Pogba last featured in the 5 December match at Brest. Since signing a two-year deal in June he has played three games, totalling 30 minutes.

Asked if he could play before the 23-31 March international break, Pocognoli said he could not give a precise date or clear answer. Pressed about the end of the season, he said the hope is that Pogba returns at some point and that he wants all injured players back for important matches.

Recent Instagram posts show him working in the club’s performance centre pool, pointing to ongoing reconditioning. He also shared a Denzel Washington image with an enigmatic message about embracing challenges and finding a new balance.

The France international has dealt with thigh, knee and calf problems, plus an ankle sprain, and has been left out of UEFA’s list for the Champions League final phase.

In mid-January, director general Thiago Scuro said the recovery programme had not worked as hoped and outlined two possibilities, either a rapid return with impact or summer talks if it does not come together. With each week, that second scenario appears to gain ground and the prospect of Pogba stringing games together fades.

Source: Nice-Matin