Article by Mihai Șovei – Published Monday, December 29, 2025, 09:47 / Updated Monday, December 29, 2025 09:48
During the Globe Soccer Awards, where he received the award for “Comeback of the Year”, France midfielder Paul Pogba took the opportunity to praise his former Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, calling him an inspiration to all players.
The event was also a success for Cristiano Ronaldo, who was named 'Best Player' and ended the year strongly.
Paul Pogba's emotional speech at the Global Soccer Awards
Pogba's award recognized his return to professional football after a difficult period. In September 2023, the Juventus midfielder received a four-year ban after a doping test revealed elevated testosterone levels. However, he successfully challenged the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), arguing that the substance was ingested unintentionally due to a medical error. His suspension was later reduced to 18 months.
After signing for AS Monaco, Paul Pogba officially returned to action on November 22, almost two years after his last appearance.
His emotional acceptance speech for “Comeback of the Year” highlighted the difficulties he and his supporters faced.
“It wasn't easy… It was a very important moment for mein my life, to see the people who were really there for me, the people who really love you when you're not in the spotlight.
This award means a lot to me and my wife…we've been through so much together. She helped me enormously and my children made me smile,” said Pogba, according to Marca.
Paul Poga, “Revelation of the Year” at the Globe Soccer Awards / photo: Imago Images
Pogba is inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo
The France international then turned his attention to Ronaldo, who was also in attendance.
“Cristiano, you are here, you inspired us all as a footballer. You did this for the next generation. A big thank you, Cristiano,” concluded the Frenchman.
At the event, Cristiano Ronaldo was named the 'Best Player' of 2025. The Portuguese star recently scored two goals for Al-Nassr in a 3-0 win over Al-Akhdood on December 27, taking him to an impressive 956 career goals.
Paul Pogba and Cristiano Ronaldo were team-mates at Manchester United in the 2021/22 season, sharing the field in 21 games.
Paul Pogba and Cristiano Ronaldo, colleagues at Manchester United / photo: Reuters
Now at Monaco, Paul Pogba has featured in three games, racking up 30 minutes of action as he continues his return to top form, spurred on by his former team-mate.
