Just a few hours ago, Paul Pogba`s signing with AS Monaco was officially announced by the club from the Rock. It might come as a surprise, but at the age of 32, the French legend will finally experience playing in Ligue 1.
This occasion leads us to revisit and highlight other notable French stars who have never set foot on Ligue 1 pitches throughout their careers.
Antoine Griezmann
Undoubtedly the most well-known example. Reportedly rejected by all French clubs during trials due to his slender build, Antoine Griezmann ultimately found his path and success in Spain and has remained there ever since.
Photo credit: GOKHAN TANER
Dayot Upamecano
Having trained at Valenciennes, Dayot Upamecano chose to move abroad to Austria with RB Salzburg to develop his game. This decision proved highly beneficial, opening doors for him in the Bundesliga and securing his place in the French national team.
Photo credit: Dylan Buell – 2025 Getty Images
Théo Hernandez
Like his brother, Théo developed in Spain, training at Real Madrid, before moving to Serie A and becoming a key player for AC Milan. A regular starter for the French national team for three years, Hernandez is currently expected to make a move to Saudi Arabia.
Photo credit: ISABELLA BONOTTO
Ibrahima Konaté
Following a similar path to his centre-back partner in the French team, Ibrahima Konaté chose to leave France to grow as a player. After featuring in only about ten Ligue 2 matches for Sochaux, the towering defender transferred to Leipzig for four years before joining Liverpool in 2021.
Photo credit: Alex Pantling – 2025 Getty Images
Micheal Olise
Born in London to a Nigerian father and a French-Algerian mother, Micheal Olise has spent his entire life in England but has expressed a strong connection to the French team. Despite having played his entire professional career on English pitches, and now those of the Bundesliga, the creative midfielder opted to wear the French jersey internationally.
Photo credit: Stuart Franklin – 2025 Getty Images
