Paul Pogba, the French World Cup-winning midfielder, is determined to remain at Juventus despite facing a reduced doping ban.
In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pogba expressed his commitment to returning to the pitch with the Italian giants, even if it means taking a pay cut.
His unwavering dedication to Juventus and his desire to continue his football career shines through in his candid words.
As he awaits his chance to return to action, Pogba is prepared to rebuild his career with the club that has played a pivotal role in his journey.
Paul’s journey back to Juventus has been anything but smooth. After testing positive for testosterone in August 2023 following a match between Juventus and Udinese, the French midfielder was provisionally suspended the following month.
Initially handed a four-year ban by the Italian National Anti-Doping Tribunal in February, Pogba’s future in football looked uncertain. However, in October 2024, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced his suspension to 18 months, allowing him to return to the field from March 11, 2025.
Despite this setback, he remains focused on his career with Juventus. “I’m willing to give up money to be able to play again with Juve,” he stated, underlining his willingness to make personal sacrifices for the club.
The 31-year-old midfielder currently earns an impressive €8 million per year under his contract, which runs until June 2026. However, during his suspension, he is only receiving the minimum salary allowed under the Serie A collective agreement—just over €2,000 a month.
ALSO READ THE LATEST NEWS UPDATE ON POGBA:
- Paul Pogba Closing in on January Transfer to Marseille: Set to Reunite with Mason Greenwood After Juventus Exit
- Paul Pogba’s Comeback: Ban Reduced to 18 Months, Return to the Field in March 2025!
For Paul, it’s not just about the money. He’s ready to come back stronger, hungrier, and more determined than ever to play football. “It will be a new Pogba, a hungrier, wiser, and stronger one… I just want to play football,” Pogba shared with a sense of renewed purpose. His words reflect a man who has faced adversity and is prepared to overcome it.
His deep connection with Juventus goes beyond the financial aspects of his contract. He first joined the club in 2012 and played a key role in helping Juventus secure multiple Serie A titles.
After a stint at Manchester United, Pogba returned to Juventus in 2022 with high hopes of continuing his successful football career.
Now, even with a doping scandal clouding his return, Pogba’s loyalty to Juventus remains unshaken. “I want to be ready to train and play for Juve. I’m a Juve player, in my mind, that’s all there is at the moment,” he said passionately.
Juventus’s Stance on Pogba’s Future
While his commitment to Juventus is clear, there have been reports suggesting that the club may be considering terminating his contract despite the reduction in his ban.
This speculation has raised questions about whether Juventus will stand by their star player or opt for a different path. As Pogba’s ban extends until March 2025, the club faces a significant decision regarding his future.
The Italian press has been buzzing with rumors that Juventus is exploring the possibility of cutting ties with the Frenchman. However, Pogba has remained steadfast in his resolve, focusing on his fitness and readiness to return to the pitch when the time comes. For now, he continues to prepare for his eventual return to action, holding on to his identity as a Juventus player.
The Road to Redemption
His journey back to the football pitch is a story of resilience and determination. Testing positive for testosterone and facing a lengthy ban was a significant blow to his career, but Pogba is using this challenging time to reflect and rebuild.
The midfielder insists that the testosterone found in his system came from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor in the United States. While this explanation didn’t absolve him of punishment, it was a key factor in the CAS decision to reduce his ban.
For Pogba, the next few months are about preparing both mentally and physically for his return. His 32nd birthday falls just four days after his suspension ends, and he will have the chance to celebrate by stepping back onto the field with Juventus. The Frenchman’s focus is clear: he wants to prove himself again, not just to his fans, but to the entire football world.
What’s Next for Pogba?
As Paul Pogba awaits his return, the football world watches with interest. His potential comeback will be closely followed by Juventus supporters and critics alike.
If he can return to his best form, Pogba could still have a significant impact on Juventus’s fortunes in the latter part of the 2024-2025 season and beyond.
The question remains, however: will Juventus stand by their man? The rumors surrounding the potential termination of his contract add an air of uncertainty to his future with the club. But for now, Pogba is focused on what he can control—his fitness, his mentality, and his love for the game.
