“Paul Pogba is ‘in talks’ over surprise next career move – as ex-Man United star closes in on return”

“Paul Pogba is ‘in talks’ over surprise next career move – as ex-Man United star closes in on return”

 

 

 

Paul Pogba is ‘in talks’ over Surprise Next Career Move – as Ex-Man United Star Closes in on Return

 

Paul Pogba’s football career may have been clouded by injuries, suspensions, and controversy in recent years, but the French midfielder isn’t finished yet. The former Manchester United and Juventus star is reportedly in advanced talks over what many are calling a “surprise” next move—one that could revive his career while raising eyebrows across the football world.

 

Despite a turbulent spell following his second stint at Old Trafford and a doping ban that sidelined him for much of the past season, Pogba is eyeing a fresh start. Sources close to the player have revealed that he is engaged in discussions with multiple clubs, including options outside of Europe, as he prepares for what could be a dramatic return to the pitch.

 

A Career at the Crossroads

 

Pogba’s career has always attracted headlines, both for his immense talent and the controversies that often followed him. A World Cup winner with France in 2018, he was once the world’s most expensive footballer when Manchester United brought him back from Juventus in 2016 for £89 million.

 

While his second spell in Manchester included memorable performances and flashes of brilliance, it was also marked by inconsistency, injury woes, and tension with various managers. Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2022, returning to Juventus in the hopes of reigniting his form in familiar surroundings.

 

However, his second stint in Turin has been disastrous. Persistent injuries limited his playing time, and just when it appeared he might finally reestablish himself, Pogba was hit with a doping suspension after testing positive for testosterone. He received a four-year ban, which is currently under appeal.

 

The Surprise Move

 

Now, in the face of adversity, Pogba appears ready to chart a new path. According to multiple reports in Italy and France, the 31-year-old is in talks with clubs in the Middle East, the MLS, and even Brazil regarding a potential return to action—pending the outcome of his appeal.

 

One surprising option that has gained traction is a move to Saudi Arabia, where several top clubs have expressed interest in bringing Pogba into the rapidly developing Saudi Pro League. Sources claim that Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli have already initiated contact with the midfielder’s representatives.

 

While Pogba had previously turned down a big-money move to Saudi Arabia last summer, citing a desire to remain in Europe, his current situation may have changed his perspective. A move to the Gulf could offer him financial stability and a slower-paced league where he can rebuild his fitness and reputation away from the unforgiving spotlight of European football.

 

Another intriguing development involves Major League Soccer (MLS). Clubs like Inter Miami and LA Galaxy are reportedly monitoring Pogba’s situation closely. His global brand, flamboyant personality, and on-field talent make him a marketable asset, particularly in the American market, where marquee signings have transformed club visibility in recent years.

 

According to one source close to MLS negotiations, “If the appeal shortens his ban or allows for a conditional return, clubs here would jump at the chance. He fits the league’s direction—high-profile, charismatic, and capable of lifting a team’s entire image.”

 

Return on the Horizon?

 

Despite the looming suspension, Pogba has not ruled out returning to football sooner rather than later. He has formally appealed his four-year ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), hoping for a reduced sentence. Legal experts suggest that if the appeal is successful, the ban could be cut down to two years or even less, particularly if the court finds that Pogba ingested the banned substance unknowingly or through contaminated supplements.

 

Pogba has consistently maintained his innocence, stating in an emotional social media post: “I have never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that would break anti-doping regulations. I live and play for football, and I would never jeopardize that.”

 

If his ban is shortened, Pogba could potentially return to the pitch as early as the 2025–26 season. That timeline has encouraged clubs to begin exploratory talks now, positioning themselves at the front of the queue should the player become available.

 

Motivated by Redemption

 

Close friends and former teammates of Pogba have described him as “more focused than ever” and “desperate to prove people wrong.” He has been quietly working on his fitness in private sessions in Dubai and Turin, avoiding the public eye while preparing for the next phase of his career.

 

Juventus, meanwhile, are unlikely to continue their association with Pogba regardless of the appeal’s outcome. The club has frozen his salary and excluded him from all sporting activities. A mutual contract termination is reportedly being finalized, allowing Pogba to pursue new opportunities once the legal process is resolved.

 

Pogba’s former club, Manchester United, have not commented on the recent developments. Though a return to Old Trafford appears unlikely, it is worth noting that United’s current regime under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS has a focus on building a more structured squad, making it improbable that they would gamble on such a high-risk reunion.

 

Fan Reaction and Legacy

 

The news of Pogba being in talks for a comeback has sparked mixed reactions among fans. While some see it as a hopeful redemption arc for a supremely talented player, others view it as the latest twist in a career that promised so much yet delivered inconsistently.

 

Social media has been flooded with speculation, with fans divided over whether Pogba should pursue a new adventure abroad or fight for one last shot in Europe.

 

Yet, regardless of opinion, Pogba’s influence on football—both culturally and athletically—remains undeniable. He has been a trailblazer for expressive, creative midfielders and continues to inspire a generation of players with his flair, confidence, and individuality.

 

What Happens Next?

 

The next major milestone in Pogba’s journey will be the result of his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Legal proceedings are expected to conclude later this year, potentially determining whether Pogba will be eligible to return sooner than originally anticipated.

 

In the meantime, negotiations with interested clubs will likely remain informal, though a few proposals could be made conditional on the appeal outcome. If reduced, Pogba may be free to join a new club by the beginning of the 2025 season.

 

For now, Paul Pogba is a man in transition—between legal challenges, personal redemption, and the search for a final chapter that does justice to his immense talent.

 

One thing is certain: the story of Paul Pogba is far from over.

 

 

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