July 28, (THEWILL) – The results of additional testing on Paul Pogba’s latest knee injury have cast further doubt on his chances of playing in the 2022 World Cup.
The midfielder, who left Manchester United this summer and returned to Juventus on a free transfer, had been getting ready for the new campaign when he tore his meniscus in training last week and was scheduled to have surgery in the United States, where Juventus is presently on their preseason tour, after initial testing.
But, he is instead returning to Italy to weigh his alternatives. The first treatment option for Pogba would be to have a portion of his meniscus removed, which would sideline him for about two months. However, at this point in his career and at his age, it is thought that this is a riskier choice because it is typically advised for younger players.
The second option for Pogba would be to stitch the lesion, but this may keep him out until 2023 and prevent him from participating in France’s World Cup defence in Qatar. The 29-year-old will now consult a professional to determine the best next steps in the hopes of making a comeback before the World Cup.
With or without Pogba, the French national team will face Australia in their World Cup opener on November 22.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
