What's Next For Paul Pogba?
In thinking of the greatest comebacks, we think Jordan coming back from retirement, Tyson back from prison, Ali back from suspension, and now Paul Pogba, soon to be back from a suspension of his own, can start to redefine his legacy. Pogba’s career was thrown into turmoil after testing positive for elevated levels of testosterone, resulting in a suspension that threatened to cut his playing days short. The ban sent shockwaves through the football world, leading to questions about his future and the toll it would take on his legacy. Despite these challenges, Pogba’s doping ban has been reduced from 4 years to just 18th months after he proved that the existence of the PEDs wasn’t intentional, but rather from a nutritional supplement prescribed by a doctor. Now the world awaits to see where the next chapter of his career will unfold. While his stint at Juventus has soured in the wake of the scandal, Pogba still has plenty of options on the table, with several clubs showing interest in bringing the Frenchman back to football.
One of the most intriguing possibilities is a return to Ligue 1, with Marseille being a leading contender. A transfer to Marseille could offer Pogba a familiar environment with passionate fans and the opportunity to revive his career in his home country. The club’s ambitions, coupled with Pogba's presence, could reignite their title hopes, especially given the current competitive state of French football. The return to Ligue 1 would also allow Pogba to play with a chip on his shoulder, proving himself to the French media and fans who have been critical in the past. With Ligue 1 currently producing emerging talents and competing with a PSG struggling to maintain dominance after the departure of Kylian Mbappé, a player of Pogba’s caliber could shift the balance in favor of a club like Marseille. Returning to France, where he began his journey, would be poetic, offering both a challenge and the chance to reconnect with his roots.
Another option for Pogba is a move to Saudi Arabia, where several European stars have found lucrative contracts in recent seasons. The Saudi Pro League is eager to bolster its reputation by attracting high-profile players, and Pogba’s name still carries significant weight in global football. Moving to Saudi Arabia would offer him a fresh start with far less pressure and scrutiny compared to Europe, allowing him to rebuild his confidence without the intense media spotlight. Beyond the monetary incentives, playing in Saudi Arabia could provide Pogba with a leadership role within the team, helping to elevate the league's competitiveness. As the league continues to grow in stature, Pogba's presence could be seen as part of a broader project aimed at making Saudi football more internationally relevant. He would be playing alongside other stars who have already made the jump, and in this less intense environment, Pogba could regain the joy and freedom that has often characterized his style of play.
The MLS also presents an exciting prospect for Pogba, with teams in the United States eager to bring in global stars to raise the league’s profile. LAFC, in particular, stands out as an attractive destination, having already signed prominent European players like Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud. A move to LAFC would not only reunite Pogba with familiar French compatriots but also provide him the chance to thrive in a competitive league without the relentless scrutiny of European media. Pogba, who has often expressed his love for the United States, could find the MLS an appealing environment to balance competitive football with a more relaxed off the pitch lifestyle. Playing in LAFC's dynamic setup, alongside experienced players, could give Pogba the perfect platform to revitalize his career while enjoying the laid back atmosphere the United States offers. With the MLS growing globally, Pogba’s presence would contribute to its continued rise as a legitimate destination for elite talent.
Wherever Pogba ends up, his return to the field will be one of the most watched comebacks in recent memory. His ability to overcome both public scrutiny and personal challenges will determine how his career is remembered. Pogba’s next move will be crucial not only for his reputation, but also for how he reshapes the narrative of redemption in football.
