Paul Pogba urged to consider MLS or Saudi move after difficult Monaco spell, says John Arne Riise

Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise believes Paul Pogba may need to consider a move away from elite European football after a disappointing campaign with AS Monaco.

The 2018 World Cup winner returned to action following the end of his doping suspension, but his comeback season failed to deliver the revival many supporters had hoped for.

Pogba struggled to make an impact

After spending a lengthy period away from competitive football, Pogba was handed an opportunity by Monaco to rebuild his career in Ligue 1. Expectations were high given his pedigree, but injuries and fitness concerns prevented him from making a significant contribution.

The midfielder managed just six appearances during the 2025-26 season and was unable to register a goal as Monaco pushed for success domestically.

Riise admitted he had hoped to see the former Manchester United and Juventus star rediscover the form that once made him one of the world’s most influential midfielders.

Riise saddened by Pogba’s decline

Speaking about Pogba’s struggles, Riise described the Frenchman as a player who once brought joy and flair to the game.

The former Monaco defender said he feels disappointed by how the latter stages of Pogba’s career have unfolded, particularly after the setbacks caused by suspension and recurring injury issues.

Riise suggested that Pogba still has time to prove doubters wrong but acknowledged that the midfielder currently does not appear as sharp or physically prepared as required to compete consistently at the highest level.

MLS and Saudi Arabia suggested as alternatives

With Pogba’s future uncertain despite having a contract until 2027, Riise believes a move to either Major League Soccer or the Saudi Pro League could make sense.

According to Riise, those destinations could offer Pogba an opportunity to enjoy football again while reducing the intense demands that come with competing for major honours in Europe’s top leagues.

He argued that if Pogba no longer feels capable of giving complete commitment to a club fighting at the top end of the table, then a fresh start elsewhere may be the best solution for both player and club.

What comes next?

For now, Pogba remains a Monaco player, but questions surrounding his future are likely to continue throughout the summer.

At 33, the French international still possesses the reputation and experience to attract interest from clubs around the world. However, his next move may depend on whether he believes he can still perform at the level required to compete for major trophies in Europe.

After a frustrating return season, the coming months could prove decisive in determining the final chapter of Pogba’s remarkable career.