The "Pogback" story has received its ultimate validation. On Sunday evening, December 28, 2025, Paul Pogba was honored with the Best Comeback Award at the 16th edition of the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.
Held at the opulent Atlantis The Royal, the ceremony celebrated Pogba's resilient return to professional football following the expiration of his doping suspension in March 2025. Now pulling the strings for AS Monaco, the 32-year-old Frenchman was recognized not just for his talent, but for the mental fortitude required to return to the elite level.
A Presentation by a Legend
In a moment that trended across social media, the award was presented to Pogba by former undefeated UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Upon taking the stage, Pogba delivered an emotional speech, notably paying tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo (who sat in the front row):
"To be back on this stage is a blessing. I looked at players like Cristiano during my time away—his discipline and hunger are an inspiration to every footballer who thinks it’s over. This is just the beginning of my second chapter."
The "Monaco" Resurrection
Pogba’s award is backed by an impressive return to form in Ligue 1 since signing with AS Monaco in the summer of 2025.
The Return: Made his first competitive appearance since September 2023 in a clash against Rennes in November.
The Impact: Since making his debut, Monaco have gone on a five-game unbeaten run, with Pogba recording two assists and dictating play from deep.
The "French Connection": His form has reportedly put him back on the radar of national team coach Didier Deschamps ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The Jury’s Verdict
The Globe Soccer Jury, featuring icons like Francesco Totti and Iker Casillas, stated that the award "intends to look forward," celebrating the return of a midfielder whose "absence represented a loss for the spectacle of the game."
The Verdict: Paul Pogba has transitioned from a period of uncertainty to being one of the most talked-about players in Europe once again. With the "Comeback Award" in his cabinet and his fitness returning, the second half of the 2025/26 season promises to be a "Pogba Masterclass."