Paul Pogba, the World Cup-winning midfielder renowned for his immense talent and polarizing career, is once again at the center of football speculation. Now 31 years old, Pogba is currently serving a reduced doping suspension of 18 months.
Despite this setback, rumors about a possible return to Manchester United, a club he still holds close to his heart, have surfaced. However, Pogba’s potential comeback comes with a twist—he is reportedly interested only if he can reclaim his iconic jersey number.
Pogba’s second stint at Manchester United began in 2016, when he rejoined the club for a then-world-record transfer fee of £89 million from Juventus. Over six years, his time at Old Trafford was marked by a mix of successes and disappointments. He lifted the League Cup and the Europa League but struggled to consistently deliver the performances expected of a player of his caliber. Despite the highs and lows, Pogba has maintained a strong emotional connection to the club, fueling speculation about reigniting his career at United.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently reduced Pogba’s original four-year doping suspension, determining that the banned substance he consumed was taken unknowingly. This decision allows the French midfielder to resume training in January 2025 and return to competitive action by March of the same year.
In a recent conversation with Bacary Sagna, former France international and close friend, Pogba’s desire to return to Old Trafford was evident. According to Sagna, Pogba continues to hold Manchester United in high regard despite the challenges and controversies that defined his previous tenure.
Manchester United has undergone significant changes since Pogba last wore the famous red jersey. Ruben Amorim, a promising young manager with a reputation for tactical acumen and nurturing talent, now leads the team. This fresh leadership could make United an attractive destination for Pogba as he seeks to rediscover his form. Sagna noted that Pogba believes Amorim’s experience as a former player and his progressive approach could provide the right environment for him to thrive.
However, Pogba’s insistence on reclaiming his former jersey number adds a layer of complexity to any potential return. The number carries symbolic significance for Pogba, who sees it as a demonstration of his renewed commitment to the club. Yet, the current holder of the jersey may resist relinquishing it, creating a potential conflict that could complicate negotiations.
Fan reactions to Pogba’s possible return are mixed. Some supporters view his world-class talent as a potential boost for the team, while others remain skeptical due to his history of inconsistent performances and off-field controversies. One fan commented that Pogba’s return could either elevate the team or bring unnecessary distractions, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
For Pogba, a return to Manchester United represents an opportunity to rewrite his story and cement his legacy at a club he deeply values. The midfielder is reportedly determined to overcome the challenges ahead, including regaining fitness, earning the trust of his teammates, and convincing Amorim of his commitment.
Sagna remains optimistic about Pogba’s ambitions, emphasizing the midfielder’s resolve to succeed in his potential third spell at United. He believes Pogba sees unfinished business at Old Trafford and views the club as the ideal platform to achieve his goals.
While it remains uncertain whether Pogba’s dream of returning to Manchester United will come to fruition, his passion for the club is undeniable. If the move materializes, fans will watch closely to see if this marks the start of a redemptive chapter for both Pogba and the Red Devils.