Paul Pogba has declared his intention to return to professional football following the reduction of his doping ban, expressing excitement about restarting his career and revealing that multiple clubs are currently vying for his signature.
The 2018 World Cup-winning midfielder, who has been a free agent since his contract with Juventus was effectively halted by a doping suspension, is now eligible to resume his career after the Court of Arbitration for Sport concluded that his use of the banned substance dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was unintentional.
The original sanction was reduced to 18 months, allowing the Frenchman to consider a return to the pitch in the near future.
In an interview with GQ, Pogba, now 32, admitted the journey had tested him both mentally and emotionally. He confessed he had contemplated retirement at one point but insisted that his passion for football ultimately prevailed.
“First of all, I can’t wait to play,” Pogba said. “It’s been so long since I’ve played. I never imagined I’d be a free agent at this point in the season.
The offers are pouring in, they’re coming from everywhere. I want to take the time to make the right choice, because I’m at a crucial point in my life and my career.”
Pogba’s last competitive appearance came in September 2023 while playing for Juventus, during which he tested positive for elevated testosterone levels.
The incident triggered an extended period of uncertainty for the former Manchester United star, who had already been battling injuries in the years leading up to the ban.
Though sidelined from professional football, Pogba remained a prominent figure off the pitch, continuing his rehabilitation and training privately while maintaining a low public profile.
He also leaned heavily on his family and inner circle during a time he now describes as among the most challenging of his career.
“When everything fell apart, I really questioned everything,” he admitted. “There were days when I thought it was over. But football is part of me—I realised I still had the fire inside, and that’s why I’m coming back.”
Despite the length of his absence, Pogba says he feels mentally refreshed and physically prepared for the next chapter.
While he didn’t name specific clubs, the midfielder confirmed he is currently reviewing multiple proposals and is in no rush to make a decision.
“My next move needs to be the right one. I want to enjoy football again, to be part of a group that believes in me and wants to win. That’s my goal.”
As speculation swirls over where he might land, one thing is clear: Pogba’s ambitions remain undimmed.
The French international has not given up on the sport that made him a global star, and with his suspension behind him, he appears determined to make his return count.
His comeback story may still be in its early stages, but Paul Pogba’s message is unmistakable—he’s not done with football yet.
