Manchester United’s so-called “Beautiful Football” revival under Michael Carrick has been jolted by what many are calling the most dramatic rumor of the campaign so far.
Fresh off the excitement of a fourth consecutive victory and the buzz generated by a surprise Cristiano Ronaldo appearance earlier in the day, social media has erupted with claims that Paul Pogba has completed a stunning one-year return to Old Trafford.
The reports have sparked wild celebrations among sections of the fanbase, with talk of a long-awaited “redemption chapter” for the French midfielder.
However, beneath the wave of excitement, the reality unfolding behind closed doors at Carrington paints a far more complex and cautious picture.
The Truth Behind the Headlines
Despite the avalanche of “confirmed” posts circulating online, Paul Pogba is not currently a Manchester United player. As things stand, he remains under contract with AS Monaco.
The former United midfielder signed a two-year deal with the Ligue 1 side in June 2025 after his doping ban was reduced, allowing him to return to professional football.
That said, the rumors of a possible reunion have not emerged out of thin air. As of February 10, 2026, several developments have fueled speculation and kept the story alive.
Pogba’s Difficult Spell in France
Pogba’s return to French football has been far from smooth. His time at Monaco has reportedly turned into a frustrating ordeal, plagued by recurring fitness issues.
The midfielder has managed only three appearances across all competitions this season and has struggled to find any rhythm.
Adding to the sense of uncertainty, Pogba was recently excluded from Monaco’s Champions League squad to make space for new signings brought in during the January transfer window.
This decision has intensified doubts about his long-term role at the club and opened the door for speculation about his future.
The Carrington Visit Explained
One of the biggest talking points came after reports emerged that Pogba had been spotted near Manchester United’s training complex.
While this immediately sparked claims of a contract signing, sources suggest the visit had nothing to do with a transfer.
Instead, Pogba is believed to have traveled to consult renowned medical specialists in the area regarding a lingering calf injury that has sidelined him since December. The visit was reportedly medical in nature rather than contractual.
The “Short-Term Redemption” Idea
Behind the scenes, however, United’s ownership group is said to be monitoring the situation closely. Insiders claim INEOS is considering a cautious, low-risk approach ahead of the summer window.
If Pogba can demonstrate full fitness and durability, a short-term, one-year deal could potentially be discussed — but only with Michael Carrick’s full approval.
Carrick’s Calculated Caution
Carrick, who shared the pitch with Pogba during United’s Europa League triumph in 2017, is reportedly hesitant. He is keen to preserve the balance and chemistry currently developing in midfield, particularly between Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro.
With Bruno Fernandes performing at an elite level and Bruno Guimarães possibly arriving from Newcastle, introducing Pogba could complicate Carrick’s tactical structure.
A club insider summarized the situation clearly: while Pogba’s talent is undeniable, any new addition must align with the discipline, intensity, and collective identity Carrick has instilled during the team’s recent winning run.
Fans Divided: Romance or Risk?
Among supporters, opinion is sharply split. Some see Pogba’s return as a poetic “last dance” — a chance to rewrite a turbulent history and unlock unfinished business.
Others argue that United should remain committed to Carrick’s long-term vision, prioritizing younger, more reliable profiles rather than revisiting the past.
As speculation continues to swirl, one question dominates the conversation: would Paul Pogba truly elevate United’s ambitions, or would his return be driven more by nostalgia than necessity?
