Pogba's suspension ends, he's ready for a new adventure

2025-03-10 19:55:00, Sport CNA

After a long period of anxiety and uncertainty, Paul Pogba finally sees light at the end of the tunnel. This Tuesday, March 11, marks the end of the suspension imposed on the French midfielder after testing positive for testosterone in September 2023. Initially, Pogba was sentenced to a heavy four-year suspension, a decision that shocked the world of football. However, after the case was reviewed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the sanction was reduced to 18 months, giving him the opportunity to return to the field much sooner than expected. But even though he is free to resume his career, Pogba's return to the field of play is not so simple. With the European championships now in their final stages and with regulatory restrictions in place, the options for an immediate return seem few.

Following the ban, Pogba's relationship with Juventus deteriorated significantly. On 15 November, the player and the club decided to terminate his contract, a decision that took effect two weeks later. At the time, Pogba still had a year left on his contract with the "Old Lady", but after the doping scandal, both parties agreed that it was best to part ways. Juventus did not want to keep a player who could not play, while Pogba was looking for a fresh start away from Italy.

Now that his suspension is over, the 31-year-old is determined to return and prove he still has a lot to give on the pitch. However, the biggest challenge for him is finding a new team, given that the European transfer market is now closed. For Pogba, an immediate return to the French championship is not possible. According to the rules of the French league, no club can sign a free agent after the January transfer window closes. One of the teams that had expressed interest in his services was Marseille, but even if their desire still exists, they are unlikely to transfer him until the summer transfer window. This makes Europe an almost impossible destination for Pogba at this stage of the season.

One of the most viable options for Pogba is the American league. The former Juventus midfielder has a house in the US and has recently been seen in the company of David Beckham, the owner of Inter Miami. Pogba and Beckham have a good relationship, and considering that the Florida team already has stars such as Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, the approach of Pogba would be a move that would further strengthen the team.

MLS has shown a willingness to bring in big European players, offering big contracts and lucrative terms. For Pogba, this could be the perfect opportunity to get back to his best form and revive his career, away from the pressure and constant criticism he has faced in Europe. Another potential destination for Pogba is the Saudi league, which has attracted some of the biggest names in world football in recent years. From a financial perspective, Saudi Arabia could be the most advantageous option for the French midfielder. His friendship with Karim Benzema and the fact that he would also find his former national teammate, N'Golo Kante, at Al Ittihad could make Saudi Arabia a very attractive destination for Pogba.