Paul Pogba, the French World Cup-winning midfielder, is currently suspended due to a doping violation and had his contract with Juventus terminated. As a free agent, he is receiving interest from various clubs.
Key Takeaways:
- Doping Ban: Pogba faced a doping suspension, initially set at four years, later reduced to 18 months.
- Return to Football: Eligible to play again from March 2025, Pogba is eyeing a comeback.
- 2026 World Cup Aspirations: He aims to represent France in the upcoming World Cup.
- Career Statistics: Pogba has had a distinguished career with notable clubs and the French national team.
- Family Legal Issues: His brother, Mathias Pogba, was sentenced to prison for attempted extortion against him.
Paul Pogba Doping Suspension and Return
In September 2023, Paul Pogba tested positive for DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), a banned substance that improves testosterone levels. Initially handed a four-year suspension, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced it to 18 months in October 2024, acknowledging that the ingestion was unintentional. This adjustment enables Pogba to restart professional football in March 2025.
Will Paul Pogba Play at the 2026 World Cup?
Despite the setback, Paul Pogba remains optimistic about his international career. He has expressed a strong desire to represent France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. French national team coach Didier Deschamps has indicated that Pogba’s future with the team is still under consideration, suggesting that a return to international duty is plausible if Pogba maintains form and fitness upon his return.
Will Paul Pogba Play at the 2026 World Cup?
As of January 2025, Pogba is without a club, having mutually terminated his contract with Juventus following the doping suspension. Throughout his career, Pogba has showcased exceptional talent at top-tier clubs:
- Manchester United: 157 Premier League appearances, contributing 29 goals and 38 assists.
- Juventus: Significant impact in Serie A, with 178 appearances, 34 goals, and 40 assists.
- France National Team: 91 caps, scoring 11 goals, and key player in securing the 2018 World Cup.
| Team | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester United | 157 | 29 | 38 |
| Juventus | 178 | 34 | 40 |
| France National Team | 91 | 11 | – |
Legal Issues With His Brother Mathias Pogba
Adding to his already complicated situation, Pogba’s brother, Mathias Pogba, was sentenced to three years in prison, with two years suspended, for attempting to extort €13 million from Paul. Mathias will serve one year under electronic surveillance. This family conflict has certainly impacted Pogba during a tumultuous period in his career.
Pau Pogba’s Social Media Insights
Pogba recently shared various stories talking about his determination to overcome obstacles and return stronger, like the following one:
Ver esta publicação no Instagram
The Future Club of Paul Pogba…Loading
As March 2025 approaches, speculation about Pogba’s next club intensifies. Reports suggest interest from clubs in various leagues, including a potential move to Olympique de Marseille, which would mark his first professional stint in France. Pogba’s decision will likely consider his ambition to regain peak form ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
