Paul Pogba, the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder, has declared that he is in discussions with a club regarding a potential comeback following his doping ban. The 32-year-old French international, who has been sidelined for an extended period, is eager to return to professional football and put a tumultuous chapter of his career behind him.
Pogba's journey has been fraught with challenges in recent years. After a disappointing second stint with Manchester United, marred by injuries and inconsistent form, he returned to Juventus. However, his troubles continued in Turin. In August 2023, he failed a drug test after a game in Italy, resulting in a four-year ban. This ban was later reduced to 18 months upon appeal, allowing him to resume training in January 2025 and competitive play in March 2025.
Speaking on French television on Sunday, Pogba revealed that he is currently "talking" with a club. Multiple sources have indicated that the club in question is Ligue 1 side Monaco. A move to Monaco would represent a return to French football for Pogba, who has previously played for Le Havre.
Beyond his on-field struggles, Pogba has also faced significant personal challenges. His brother, Mathias, was sentenced to a year in prison in December for his involvement in a plot to extort millions of euros from the footballer. Pogba has stated that he has re-established contact with Mathias and that they are working towards reconciliation as a family. "We are in contact. We've spoken, among ourselves, with the family," Pogba said. "It's a blood bond. There was a scar, of course. We're moving forward. Only time can give us answers. All we want is to always be united as a family. That's the most important thing. It's hard. Of course it's very hard, I'm not going to lie. I was hurt. It's not the same as before, but we're in touch," he added.
Despite the setbacks, Pogba remains determined to revive his career. He has been training rigorously to regain his fitness and sharpness. Recently, he was seen training alongside Manchester United players Kobbie Mainoo and Leny Yoro, further fueling speculation about his future. He has expressed his desire to return to the pitch mentally and physically ready, emphasizing that it is now "just a matter of time."
France head coach Didier Deschamps has remained in contact with Pogba, offering encouragement and support. Deschamps has indicated that the door remains open for Pogba to represent France again, provided he can prove his form and fitness at club level. Pogba's ultimate ambition is to participate in the 2026 World Cup, and he is eager to demonstrate that he still has the ability to compete at the highest level.
While Monaco appears to be the frontrunner, other clubs have also been linked with Pogba. There have been rumors of a potential return to Manchester United, as well as interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer, including David Beckham's Inter Miami. Juventus terminated Pogba's contract last November, making him available as a free agent. This allows him to negotiate with clubs without a transfer fee, increasing his appeal to potential suitors. As he approaches his 33rd birthday, Pogba is aware that his next move could be crucial in defining the final chapter of his playing career. He is seeking a club where he can play regularly, contribute to a competitive team, and showcase his enduring talent.
