“I don’t have to say no” - Paul Pogba drops hint on new transfer away from Juventus when he returns from ban
French midfielder Paul Pogba has hinted that he may not continue with Juventus when he returns from his doping ban in 2025. The former Manchester United man has been out of action following a ban for testosterone doping in September 2023, and is nearing a return.
Pogba left Manchester United for Juventus as a free agent in 2022 after an underwhelming six-year spell in the Premier League. The Frenchman struggled with injuries in his first season back in Turin before receiving the ban at the start of his second season.
Paul Pogba has been in the news in recent weeks after it was revealed that his ban, initially set at four years, had been reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sports. The 31-year-old remains under contract with Juventus, but he told L'Equipe (via Fabrizio Romano on X) that he may continue his career in his native France.
“We don't know what tomorrow will be made of, why not play in Ligue 1? I don't have to say no."
Paul Pogba has been linked with Ligue 1 outfit Olympique Marseille in recent weeks as he prepares to return to action. The midfielder will be fit to return to action in March 2025, just before his 32nd birthday. He has never previously played in the French top-flight, having only represented Juventus and Manchester United in his professional career.
Pogba is contracted to Juventus until 2026, with the club having decided against ripping up his contract after his ban. The 91-cap France international is unlikely to remain in Turin as rumors intensify of a move elsewhere.
Juventus, Paul Pogba looking to part ways - Reports
Serie A giants Juventus are looking to part ways with star midfielder Paul Pogba as soon as possible, according to famed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Bianconeri are keen to terminate the contract of the 31-year-old, as he may not fit into the plans of manager Thiago Motta.
Juventus have been ruthless in their dealings since Motta's arrival in the summer, selling off players who do not feature in the manager's plans. Pogba appears to be one of those despite his undeniable talent, and the club are in talks with him over a mutual separation.
Paul Pogba made only 12 appearances for Juventus in his injury-hit second spell at the club before his ban in September 2023. The midfielder is due to begin training with the side in January 2025, but a resolution over his future would have been reached by then.