Paul Pogba winning the Best Comeback award at the Globe Soccer Awards 2025 has been shocking for the football world, but not for the reasons organisers may have expected. While the French midfielder described the moment as an emotional milestone after a “long and difficult journey,” many fans and analysts are asking a far more uncomfortable question: what exactly is the comeback being celebrated?
Pogba’s recent years have been defined by injuries, prolonged absences, and off-field turbulence rather than consistent footballing impact. His move to Monaco was meant to signal a fresh start, yet critics argue that a true comeback should be measured in performances, minutes, and influence on the pitch, not powerful speeches or sympathy-driven narratives. For them, the award feels premature, especially when other players have fought their way back through form and fitness with tangible results.
Supporters, however, see the award as recognition of a mental and personal battle rarely acknowledged in elite football.
