Can Paul Pogba Play in the 2026 World Cup?
The football world is buzzing with the question: Will Paul Pogba feature for France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico? The midfielder, a 2022 World Cup winner, is now approaching his early thirties, and his future depends on a mix of personal fitness, national‑team dynamics and the strategic plans of Les Bleus’ coaching staff. This article examines the key factors that will determine whether Pogba can lift his name on the tournament roster.
Current Club Situation and Form
After a turbulent spell at Juventus and a brief, injury‑ridden return to Manchester United, Pogba signed with Al‑Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League in 2024. The move gave him regular playing time, but the level of competition differs from Europe’s top leagues. His performances have been solid, with an average of 1.2 key passes per game and a 78 % pass‑completion rate in the 2024‑25 season.
- Playing minutes: Approximately 2,400 minutes across all competitions.
- Goal contribution: 8 goals and 12 assists.
- Physical metrics: Maintains a top speed of 31 km/h and a sprint frequency comparable to his 2022 World Cup peak.
These statistics suggest that Pogba remains a capable midfield engine, albeit one who must prove his consistency against elite opposition.
Age, Eligibility and FIFA Regulations
Born on 15 March 1993, Pogba will be 33 years old when the 2026 World Cup kicks off. FIFA imposes no age limit on senior players; eligibility is based solely on nationality and registration. As long as he holds a French passport and is selected by the French Football Federation (FFF), he can compete.
However, age can affect stamina, recovery time and tactical flexibility. Players over 30 often adapt their roles—shifting from box‑to‑box duties to more controlled, positional play. Pogda’s ability to adjust his style will be a decisive factor for Didier Deschamps, who values both experience and dynamism in his midfield core.
Injury History and Recent Fitness
Pogba’s career has been punctuated by injuries, notably a hamstring tear in 2020 and a recurring thigh issue in 2023. Medical reports from his current club indicate that he completed a full-season rehabilitation program in early 2025, and his latest MRI scans show no lingering muscular deficits.
Key points for the French medical staff will
