Search icon

Football

28th Jul 2022

Paul Pogba could miss World Cup due to knee injury

Simon Lloyd

Pogba faces a big decision over his knee injury

Paul Pogba could be forced to miss the World Cup in Qatar later this year due to the knee injury he picked up in training with Juventus, reports have claimed.

Pogba sealed a return to Juve from Manchester United at the start of the month, but limped out of a training session in Los Angeles during the Italian club’s preseason tour of the United States.

Scans later revealed the midfielder had suffered a torn meniscus, and could require surgery.

Pogba was expected to remain in the States to undergo surgery but has instead flown back to Italy to see a specialist.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the 29-year-old has two options. One would see part of the meniscus removed, which would keep him out of action for up to two months. The operation is believed to be suited to younger players, however, and could have an impact on his mobility.

The second option would be to stitch the tear, but this could result in a lengthy recovery period of up to five months – ruling him out of France’s attempts to defend their World Cup title in Qatar.

 

Pogba is expected to make a final decision after consultation with the specialist.

The midfielder played a key role in France’s World Cup win in Russia four years ago and his absence would come as a huge blow to manager Didier Deschamps.

A lengthy period on the sidelines could also prove problematic for his club, who may now look to bring in another midfielder before the close of the transfer window.

Related links: