Despite his serious knee injury, Paul Pogba's 2022 FIFA World Cup dream reportedly remains alive due to his "special status" in Didier Deschamps' France national team.
Soon after returning to Italy following his Manchester United departure in July, the Juventus star suffered a knee injury during pre-season training.
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It was ruled the player had damaged his meniscus in his right knee, and it was eventually decided he would undergo surgery in order for him to return to the pitch by November, the same month the global showpiece in Qatar kicks off.
It is understood the player will spend 40 to 60 days on the sidelines while he recovers from the operation, thus putting at risk his chances of being selected for his country's World Cup squad as they look to defend their title.
However, while he is predicted to return to action just 10 days before the tournament in the Middle East gets underway, the 29-year-old is expected to be included in Deschamps' squad because of his "special status" in the team, irrespective of what his fitness is like at the time, according to L'Equipe.
It is further claimed the former United star is held in high regard by the Les Bleus coach, who feels the midfielder has a vital role in his team's dynamics.
It is understood that the recent expansion of the squad limit to 26 players – the previous limit was 23 – allows the France coach to include Pogba in his side, despite concerns about his lack of match fitness and preparation.
The 2013 Golden Boy award winner was also recently marred in controversy after his brother Mathias made some serious of allegations against him, accusing the Bianconeri star of using a witch doctor to curse his compatriot Kylian Mbappe.
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Pogba has denied those claims, while the Paris Saint-Germain forward also said he believes his international teammate over his sibling.
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