The calculations were not good, and the open secret, even if some still hoped: Paul Pogba’s lawyer formalized this Monday the absence of his client for the 2022 Football World Cup. The French midfielder , even if he resumed “partially” collective training with Juventus after his knee operation in early September, will not be operational in time for the World Cup and forfeits.
“After medical examinations yesterday (Sunday) and today (Monday), it is extremely painful to inform that Paul Pogba will still need rehabilitation after his operation. For this reason, Paul will not be able to join (…) the French team in Qatar”, Rafaela Pimenta, the player’s agent and lawyer, said in a statement sent to AFP.
Paul Pogba had resumed collective training with Juventus Turin in recent days, but a new physical glitch on Sunday delayed his recovery, making it impossible to be selected on the list announced on November 9 by coach Didier Deschamps. The midfielder has not played any official match since April. “Paul will continue to give his best to be back on the pitch for the fans and his team as soon as possible,” she added Rafaela Pimenta.
A new blow for the Blues, already deprived of N’Golo Kanté, his midfield partner in 2018. . An essential pair in the system of Didier Deschamps, who will have to do without it in Qatar from November 22 for the first match against Australia.