Paul Pogba’s hopes of playing an integral role in Juventus’ Serie A and Champions League campaign and guiding his national team to success in Qatar are now in doubt.
The midfielder, who this summer re-signed for former club Juventus after exhausting his contract with Manchester United, has not been able to play in Italy yet.
Pogba injured his knee in July after being unavailable for most of the latter part of last season.
At the time, Juventus clarified that Pogba would have a “specialist orthopedic consultation” to understand the seriousness of the problem in his right knee.
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri broke the news yesterday that Pogba’s participation in the World Cup is in doubt. He was speaking ahead of Juventus’ clash with Paris-Saint Germain in the Champions League tonight.
Allegri said: “This morning, Pogba trained for the second time, but then he stopped, and it was then decided that he [would] undergo surgery.
“We’ll really get it back in January.”
The Italian then stressed that the World Cup is none of his business and that his only goal is for Pogba to return to the Allianz Stadium in the New Year: “Whether he plays in the World Cup or not is not my problem.”
This is a significant shock for Juventus, whose creative quality in midfield has been called into question. Pogba’s expected time on the sidelines is unconfirmed, but online suggestions have indicated between 40 and 60 days. Allegri pointed out that former United player Ángel Di María will also not return to action against PSG.
The Old Lady have drawn three of their first five Serie A games. Allegri’s side finished fourth in Serie A last season and were beaten in the Champions League round of 16 by Villarreal.
Pogba, meanwhile, was aiming to immediately rejuvenate his career at Turin having ended his second spell with United rather sourly.
The 29-year-old, entering the stereotypical age for a central midfielder, would be seen as a key player in France’s efforts to retain the World Cup trophy this winter.
Playing alongside N’Golo Kanté and Blaise Matuidi, Pogba was intrinsic to the team’s success in 2018, scoring crucially against Croatia in the final.
Pogba’s career in fitness has begun. 
United Matchday Magazine – The best United match experience. Can Ten Hag’s men make five out of five? Get the Royal Society Matchday Mag issue now to find out:
Online football content like you’ve never seen before A unique match hub and carefully curated news, features and opinions No ads, no clickbait, no fake news – just 100% pure United Delivered instantly to your device with easy online ordering and secure Click Preview to see more or buy now for just £1.25 / $1.50 Limited Time Offer: SAVE 33% On A Season Pass – Use Discount Code SEASON33 At Checkout.
