French midfielder Paul Pogba is determined to make his comeback at Juventus despite facing a reduced doping ban and potential contractual challenges. In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport on Wednesday, the World Cup-winning midfielder declared his unwavering commitment to the Turin-based club, even if it means accepting a significant salary reduction.
“I’m willing to give up money to be able to play again with Juve. I want to come back with this club,” Pogba told the Italian sports daily. “The reality is that I am a Juve player, and I am preparing to play for Juve.”
Pogba’s future at Juventus has been clouded by the fallout from his doping case. His current contract, which runs until June 2026, is worth €8 million annually, but Italian media reports suggest the club may be considering terminating the agreement following his doping scandal. The ongoing suspension has already taken a financial toll on the Frenchman, who is currently receiving only €2,000 per month—the minimum salary stipulated in Serie A’s collective agreement.
Despite the uncertainties, Pogba is adamant about his future. His determination to return to the pitch in the black and white of Juventus comes from his deep connection to the club and his hunger to prove himself again.
The Doping Scandal and Its Aftermath
Pogba’s troubles began in August 2023 when he tested positive for testosterone after Juventus’ Serie A match against Udinese. The positive test result led to his provisional suspension in September, and in February 2024, the Italian National Anti-Doping Tribunal handed down a four-year ban. The ban came as a significant blow to Pogba’s career, casting doubts over his future both with Juventus and in the sport.
However, in a major development earlier this month, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced Pogba’s ban from four years to 18 months, making him eligible to return to competitive football in March 2025. This will be just in time for his 32nd birthday, providing him an opportunity to re-establish himself in the sport before the twilight of his career. Although the initial ban seemed to spell the end of his Juventus career, the reduction now opens the door for a possible return.
Throughout the ordeal, Pogba has maintained that the positive test was the result of an innocent mistake. His representatives claimed that the testosterone entered his system through a food supplement prescribed by a doctor in the United States. According to his team, Pogba was unaware that the supplement contained a banned substance, and the mistake was entirely unintentional.
A New and Improved Pogba
Despite the setbacks, Pogba is focused on the future and eager to return to football. “It will be a new Pogba, a hungrier, wiser, and stronger one… I just want to play football,” he said in the interview.
Pogba’s time away from football has provided him the space to reflect on his career and goals. Now, he sees his return to the game as a chance to show a different side of himself—not only as a player but as a person who has grown from the adversity he’s faced. He believes his time off has made him more resilient and determined than ever to succeed.
The doping suspension, contract uncertainty, and media scrutiny have put Pogba under immense pressure, but his focus remains on football and his commitment to Juventus. For Pogba, it’s not just about returning to the pitch—it’s about doing so with renewed strength and determination to make an impact.
What Lies Ahead for Pogba and Juventus?
While Pogba’s ban has been reduced, questions remain about whether Juventus will welcome him back with open arms or if they will move to sever ties completely. The club has been dealing with financial and sporting challenges in recent years, and some believe they may be looking to offload Pogba’s hefty salary as part of broader restructuring efforts.
However, Pogba’s desire to stay and prove himself again could be a crucial factor in Juventus’ decision-making process. If the French star returns as the improved player he promises to be, Juventus could see a valuable asset in him once more.
For Juventus fans and Pogba himself, the next few months will be crucial in determining his future. Will Juventus terminate his contract, or will they give the star midfielder a second chance to shine in Turin?
Football fans eagerly awaiting Pogba’s potential return to the pitch should stay tuned to the latest updates regarding his status with Juventus. And if you’re a football enthusiast who enjoys a bit of excitement off the field, why not add some thrill to your game-watching experience? Head over to Jambobet, where you can place your bets on upcoming Juventus matches, track your favorite teams, and be part of the action as Pogba prepares for his big comeback. With the potential for surprises and big wins, Jambobet is your go-to platform for all things football betting!
