Paul Pogba has suffered a further blow to his World Cup options.
The former Manchester United midfielder has yet to play for Juventus since his return to Turin in the summer.
Pogba suffered a knee injury in July and that has turned out to be more serious than expected. The Frenchman had to interrupt his second training session with Juve and, consequently, underwent surgery.
Massimiliano Allegri said in early September: “This morning, Pogba trained for the second time, but then he stopped, and it was decided that he [would] undergo surgery.
“We will really get it back in January. [after the World Cup].”
The margin period was expected to be 40 to 60 days. That prediction turned out to be accurate as Pogba again underwent light training last week.
However, the latest reports from Italy suggest that Pogba has experienced another injury problem.
Fabiana della Valle of La Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that Pogba has now been diagnosed with a thigh muscle injury.
This has been caused by his extended period on the sidelines without his consistent athletic schedule. He is expected to be out of training for at least ten days.
Before this update, the chances of Pogba becoming involved in France’s attempts to retain the World Cup title were slim, but with this added hurdle, any major role can be ruled out.
Juventus have four games left before the World Cup break, and their last game will take place on November 13 against Lazio.
Without the struggles of the talismanic Pogba and N’Golo Kanté this season, Didier Deschamps will have to rely on Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga to carry his midfield.
Although the Real Madrid duo are incredibly talented with world-class potential, their inexperience on such an intense international stage can be revealing.
In addition, United defender Raphaël Varane is also a doubt for the World Cup after suffering an injury against Chelsea.
The experienced center midfielder posted an update on his rehab, posting a photo of himself working out in a gym.
Anthony Martial has also endured an injury-plagued season. Nonetheless, Erik ten Hag is hopeful that the 26-year-old Frenchman will return to first-team action before the World Cup break.
