Paul Pogba, a French midfielder, recently had his four-year doping ban reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, allowing him to return to competitive football in March 2025. However, his future at Juventus remains uncertain, with reports suggesting the club may consider terminating his contract, which runs until June 2026 and is worth up to 10 million euros per season. Juventus coach Thiago Motta remained tight-lipped about Pogba’s status, stating that the club would assess the situation and make a decision if necessary.
Pogba’s doping ban stemmed from testing positive for testosterone following a Serie A fixture in August 2023, leading to a provisional suspension and ultimately a four-year ban. The midfielder’s representatives claimed the testosterone came from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor in the United States. Pogba’s career had already faced challenges after his return to Juventus from Manchester United in 2022, with on and off-pitch issues limiting his playing time and performance.
During the 2022-23 season, Pogba made only 10 appearances for Juventus due to a knee injury, which also ruled him out of the 2022 World Cup. Additionally, he was involved in a case of organised extortion, with six individuals, including his brother Mathias, facing trial. Since his last game in September 2024, Juventus has undergone changes, including a new manager in Motta and the signing of several new players as part of a team rebuild. Despite finishing third in the previous season without Pogba, Juventus invested heavily in midfielders during the summer transfer window.
The uncertainty surrounding Pogba’s future at Juventus raises questions about the midfielder’s next career move and potential destinations. His previous success at Juventus, where he won four Serie A titles in his initial stint from 2012 to 2016, highlights his talent and potential impact on the team. However, his recent struggles and off-field issues have cast doubt on his ability to regain top form and consistency in the future. Pogba’s return to competitive football in March 2025 will mark a crucial period in his career, as he seeks to prove his worth and secure a stable playing environment.
As Pogba navigates through the challenges and uncertainties surrounding his career, his performance on the pitch and conduct off the field will play a critical role in shaping his future. The midfielder’s reputation and value as a player will be closely monitored by clubs and fans alike, as they assess his potential contributions and impact on their respective teams. Whether Pogba remains at Juventus or seeks opportunities elsewhere, his journey back to professional football will be closely followed by the football world, eager to witness his comeback and potential resurgence in the sport.
