“I’m trying not to get ahead of myself,” AS Monaco manager Sébastien Pocognoli told AFP. The Belgian has been more committed in the past on the subject of Paul Pogba (32). The Monaco manager announced the Frenchman’s impending return at the start of the month, revealing that he was in line for inclusion against Paris FC on November 1st.

A return against Rennes for Pogba?

Ultimately, that return was delayed with Pogba sustaining an ankle strain just two days ahead of much much-anticipated return, following an absence of over two years. “I hope that his return [is imminent], but the last time I said that… so I’m trying not to get ahead og myself. It will happen when it is meant to happen,” added Pocognoli.

A pessimistic stance? Not necessarily. Pocognoli had floated the idea of Pogba’s involvement against Stade Rennais this weekend, prior to the international break. L’Équipe understands that La Pioche was involved in first-team training on Friday and that he is pushing to be included in Monaco’s matchday squad to face Rennes this Saturday. The long wait to see the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder back on the pitch may soon be over.