Paul Pogba is back in the spotlight after his doping ban was lifted, fueling speculation about his next move. With his name once again linked to Manchester United, the football world is watching closely to see where the French midfielder will land.
The 31-year-old left United for Juventus in 2022, hoping to revive his career, but his return to Italy took a disastrous turn when he was suspended for doping. Now, with his suspension reduced, Pogba is looking for a new club, and some former United players believe he still has unfinished business at Old Trafford.
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Paul Pogba’s Doping Ban: What Happened?
Pogba was suspended in September 2023 after testing positive for testosterone, a banned substance that boosts muscle growth and recovery. The test was conducted following Juventus’ Serie A match against Udinese on August 20, 2023, a game in which Pogba did not even play.
Italy’s National Anti-Doping Tribunal (NADO Italia) issued an immediate provisional suspension, and in March 2024, he was handed a four-year ban—a ruling that could have ended his career. Pogba maintained that he never knowingly took performance-enhancing drugs, claiming the substance came from a supplement prescribed outside Juventus’ medical team.
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Determined to fight back, Pogba appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which reviewed his case and reduced his ban, clearing him to resume professional football.
Could Pogba Make a Sensational Manchester United Return?
With Pogba now free to play, speculation about a third spell at Manchester United has intensified. Rio Ferdinand, one of United’s greatest defenders, believes the club should at least give him a chance to prove himself.
“Surely he’s got to go somewhere. Pogba at United? I’d tell him to come in and train with us, get fit, and let’s see what he’s got,” Ferdinand said on Rio Presents.
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Pogba’s second stint at United (2016–2022) was a rollercoaster of brilliance and frustration. He delivered moments of magic, including his influential role in United’s Europa League and EFL Cup-winning season in 2017, but inconsistency and injuries often overshadowed his talent.
Some fans believe he still has something to prove, while others argue that United should move forward without looking back.
Manchester United’s Transfer Policy: A Roadblock for Pogba?
Despite the speculation, United’s new manager Rúben Amorim has made it clear that the club is focusing on young, hungry players rather than big-name veterans.
“We are looking for young players who are eager to prove themselves,” Amorim stated in response to transfer rumors.
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His stance suggests that United’s current recruitment strategy may not align with a Pogba comeback. With the club focused on rebuilding for the future, Pogba may have to look elsewhere for his next move.
What’s Next for Pogba?
Now that Pogba has been cleared to play, he faces a crucial decision. Will he return to the Premier League, explore a move to the MLS or Saudi Pro League, or try to restart his career in Europe?
One thing is certain—his next move will be closely watched by football fans worldwide.
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