Paul Pogba Finds His Stride Again, Playing with Zidane and France’s 1998 World Cup Heroes

Paul Pogba, a name synonymous with flair on the pitch but recently more associated with challenges off it, is making headlines for a happier reason. Following a period marred by a doping ban and contractual uncertainty, the French midfielder has been spotted enjoying the beautiful game in esteemed company, sharing the field with legends of the sport.

Amidst settling into his new environment with Ligue 1 club Monaco, Pogba recently took a significant step back towards the joyous side of football. He participated in a special event hosted by sportswear giant adidas. This was no ordinary kick-about; the lineup included luminaries such as Zinedine Zidane, Fabien Barthez, Emmanuel Petit, and Lilian Thuram – pillars of France`s triumphant 1998 World Cup squad. For a player who won his own World Cup medal with France in 2018, getting to play alongside figures who inspired a generation must have felt particularly resonant.

For Pogba, who has navigated turbulent waters ranging from a challenging return to Manchester United, the termination of his contract at Juventus after a positive doping test, and the subsequent lengthy suspension, this encounter served as a powerful antidote to recent stresses. Reportedly stating it was a “dream” to play alongside these icons, the event appears to have been a pivotal moment in rediscovering his well-documented smile after completing his 18-month ban (reduced from an initial four years on appeal – a small win in a difficult period).

This return to positive engagement comes as Pogba prepares for the next phase of his professional career. Following the conclusion of his suspension, he has linked up with AS Monaco. The Ligue 1 outfit is evidently backing the mercurial midfielder to rediscover the form that made him a global star, integrating him into their setup as he settles into his new surroundings on the French Riviera.

While the road ahead involves proving his fitness and reclaiming his place in competitive football, sharing a pitch with his idols from 1998 is undoubtedly a positive chapter in Pogba`s journey. It suggests a player ready to leave past difficulties behind and focus on the game he loves, hopefully bringing his unique blend of skill and personality back to the forefront.