Paul Pogba’s management team announced on Monday that the French midfielder will undergo surgery, putting his chances of playing in the World Cup in doubt.
In August, during pre-season training with Juventus, Pogba tore a lateral meniscus injury. More recently, lab results showed no improvement in his right knee. At first, the French Guinean midfielder announced that he would not be operated on.
Such an injury is sustainable for a non-professional player. Although this type of injury shortens a player’s career, surgery is the only way to come back strong. In extreme cases, the recovery period for meniscus surgery is three to six months. However, the timetable for Pogba to return from recovery is just two months away. Regardless, the midfielder’s form will be rusty come the World Cup. As a result, Les Bleus can probably make a run for their second successive title in November without the help of their star midfielder. Furthermore, Pogba’s return to Serie A remains questionable for 2022/23.
Juventus needs Pogba back from injury
Pogba’s knee operation is a step in the right direction, should the Frenchman look to help Juventus win their 35th Scudetto and third UEFA Champions League title. However, Juventus’ chance for these titles is at risk considering Pogba’s absence from the Champions League. Turin’s black and white zebras have been plagued by new injuries this season, with Ángel Di María suffering a strained left adductor before returning.
After joining Juventus on a free transfer from Manchester United, Pogba made his long-awaited return to the club where he scored 28 goals in over 100 appearances between 2012-2016. However, his return to Turin came with baggage. More recently, bizarre accusations of witchcraft, blackmail plots involving his relatives and extortionist ransom-demand plots have surrounded Pogba in controversy.
Additionally, the injured midfielder claims he was kidnapped and held at gunpoint in March.
The next step for the Italian giants, Juventus play PSG on Tuesday in the UEFA Champions League. The Group H clash is available via streaming on Paramount+.
Photo Credit: IMAGO/LaPresse
