Paul Pogba’s football career has faced significant challenges in recent years, culminating in a four-year suspension due to a doping violation. The 31-year-old French midfielder’s future seemed bleak after he failed a drug test in 2023, resulting in a severe ban. However, after appealing, Pogba had his suspension reduced to 18 months, allowing him a potential path back to the sport. Despite this more favorable outcome, his future with Juventus, the club he returned to in 2022, remains uncertain.
Pogba’s second spell at Juventus has been far from what both he and the club had hoped for. When he rejoined in July 2022, fans were excited about the return of the once-dominant midfielder, expecting him to reinvigorate the squad. Unfortunately, his first season was marred by persistent injuries, limiting him to only 12 appearances.
The situation worsened dramatically when Pogba tested positive for DHEA, a banned substance. Although Pogba has insisted that he unknowingly consumed the substance, the damage was already done, and the initial four-year ban cast serious doubt on his career.
With his suspension now shortened to 18 months, Pogba is expected to return to training in January 2025, with the possibility of playing competitively by March. However, his future at Juventus is still in doubt.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Juventus is likely to mutually terminate Pogba’s contract, which originally ran until 2026. Juventus CEO Maurizio Scanavino confirmed that discussions are ongoing between the club and Pogba’s representatives, and a resolution is expected in the coming months.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future at Juventus, Pogba’s career may take an interesting turn. Reports have linked him with a potential move to Marseille, where his former Manchester United teammate Mason Greenwood is currently playing.
Greenwood, who also departed Manchester United under controversial circumstances, has started rebuilding his career in Ligue 1, and there is speculation that Pogba could join him, creating a reunion of two players looking to redeem their reputations.
According to Malick Traore of NCI, negotiations between Pogba and Marseille are reportedly in advanced stages, with a potential deal possibly occurring during the winter transfer window.
The doping case continues to overshadow Pogba’s career. His positive test for DHEA, which was confirmed after a random check in October 2023, has attracted widespread scrutiny. While Pogba has consistently maintained that he never knowingly consumed any banned substances, the incident has raised questions about his legacy. Some view the reduction of his suspension as a victory, but others remain skeptical about whether this scandal will permanently tarnish his career.
As Pogba’s suspension nears its conclusion, many in the football world will be closely monitoring his next moves. His decision about where to play next could be critical, not only for his own career but also for the reputation of the club that signs him.
If Pogba were to join Marseille, the French club would gain a highly experienced and talented player, albeit one whose recent years have been plagued by controversy. Alternatively, if Pogba chooses a different path, it will be interesting to see which clubs are willing to take a chance on him as he seeks to rebuild his career.
In the coming months, several factors will shape Pogba’s future, including his physical condition, his ability to regain match fitness after such a long layoff, and the willingness of potential suitors to overlook the doping scandal. Regardless of the direction his career takes, Paul Pogba’s journey back to professional football promises to be filled with intrigue, speculation, and plenty of drama.
