Paul Pogba, once one of the brightest stars in world football, is now officially free to return to professional play as his 18-month doping ban ends today, March 11. The French midfielder, now 31, has endured a turbulent period that saw his career nearly derailed, but with his suspension lifted, clubs in Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League are already showing interest in securing his signature.
The former Juventus and Manchester United star was initially handed a four-year ban after testing positive for testosterone in 2023. However, after an appeal, the ban was reduced to 18 months, making him eligible for an immediate return to football. His time away from the pitch was marked by uncertainty, contract termination, and intense speculation about whether he would ever return to top-level football. Now, with the suspension behind him, Pogba is at a crucial crossroads in his career.
Juventus, his last club before the ban, officially terminated his contract at the end of 2024, leaving him a free agent. Despite his time away from professional play, the World Cup winner remains an attractive prospect for clubs looking to add experience and flair to their midfield. Reports from Italian media outlets Gazzetta and Repubblica suggest that Pogba has already begun evaluating his next move, with two destinations emerging as frontrunners: Major League Soccer in the United States and the ever-growing Saudi Pro League.
Among the MLS clubs showing interest, Inter Miami stands out as a potential landing spot. The Florida-based club, co-owned by David Beckham, has built a reputation for attracting world-class talents, including Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. Pogba has spent considerable time in Miami during his suspension, fueling speculation that he may reunite with some of the game’s biggest stars in the United States. His charisma, technical skills, and global appeal align perfectly with the MLS’s ambition to further raise its profile on the world stage.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Pro League remains a strong contender for Pogba’s next move. With clubs in the region continuing their aggressive recruitment of European stars, the financial incentives and growing competitiveness of the league make it a viable option. One of the clubs reportedly interested is Al-Shabab, now managed by former Juventus director Pavel Nedved. The potential reunion with Nedved could provide a familiar and structured environment for Pogba as he looks to reignite his career.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Pogba’s next step. While his reputation took a hit following the doping ban, his natural talent and experience make him an attractive target for clubs looking to add star power to their squads. Whether he chooses the glamour of Miami or the lucrative appeal of Saudi Arabia, one thing is certain—Paul Pogba’s career is far from over.
Fans and football analysts are eagerly waiting to see how Pogba reinvents himself after this difficult period. Will he be able to regain the form that once made him one of the most dominant midfielders in the world? Or will his time away from the sport prove too great an obstacle to overcome? Regardless of where he lands, his return marks the beginning of a new chapter in an already eventful career.
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