'It's tough for everyone' - Mathias Pogba on brother Paul's injury woes at Monaco

Paul Pogba's much-anticipated return to professional football has hit a major snag as he battles persistent fitness problems. 

After joining the Ligue 1 club last summer following a reduced doping suspension, the 32-year-old World Cup winner was aiming to revive his career. 

However, a recurring calf injury has kept him out of action since December 5, culminating in his exclusion from Monaco's Champions League knockout stage squad.

Speaking to RMC Sport, Mathias Pogba gave a candid assessment of his brother's situation, suggesting that expectations for an immediate impact were likely unrealistic after such a long time away from the game.

"It's frustrating, not just for him but for everyone in the family. I told him that he couldn't be back at 100 per cent straight away," Mathias said. 

"We expected better from his return. But this is the reality. The body is not used to this sort of rhythm at high intensity."'We Aren't Robots': The Physical Toll of a Comeback

Mathias explained that while the family remains supportive, there is a shared sense of frustration over the physical setbacks. 

He emphasized the immense challenge of readjusting to the demands of elite football after a two-year absence, suggesting Paul's body is reacting to the sudden increase in workload.

"We aren't robots," Mathias stated. "When you come back, you have to do it bit by bit, otherwise it sends you signals. That is exactly what is happening to him."Mental Strain on a 'Resilient' Midfielder

"We are patient and resilient. He will have that patience to get back to his best level," he affirmed. "It's more mentally that it becomes difficult. 

“You have high expectations. You are enthusiastic and then you get stabbed in the back again. It's about bouncing back again and again."