Career of Paul Pogba may soon be over. Doping case could keep him out of football for years

A huge talent, his footballing qualities could never be denied. But it was different with discipline, professionalism and attitude. Paul Pogba had what it takes to be one of the best footballers on the planet. Instead, he faces the end of his career at the age of 30. He could be facing a doping suspension of several years.

In the summer of 2022, after a second unsuccessful stint at Manchester United, where he was for six years, Paul Pogba returned to where he thrived. For the second time, Juventus were able to bring him in for free, promising to strengthen their midfield line.

But once Pogba signed for the Turin club, complications arose. The French midfielder’s health was suffering, along with the bad decisions he made. Last season, he mostly missed the entire season, starting only 10 games in which he barely crossed the 150 minutes played mark.

This season should have been different. But it isn’t. He played two games, 52 minutes. In September, moreover, information flew around the world that Pogba had tested positive for doping and was sick. The Frenchman appealed, but unsuccessfully.

The anti-doping prosecutor’s office in Italy terminated all procedures. It is worth noting that the initial estimates of the punishment were between two and four years without football. It is now clear at least how high a sentence prosecutors want for him.

Is career of Paul Pogba over?

As already mentioned, the anti-doping prosecutor in Italy has completed all procedures and, according to Football-Italia, is asking for Paul Pogba to be given a four-year suspension. This is the maximum possible punishment.

However, Pogba can negotiate a deal that would potentially reduce the punishment. He’ll have a tough time of it anyway. Even if the suspension is shorter, his return to professional football will not be easy. Now his health is troubling him and several years without playing at the highest level? That will take its toll.

Moreover, Pogba has to receive a much smaller wage than he was used to because of the suspension. Before, he was supposed to earn 8 million euros a year, now he has to settle for 42,000 euros a year.

According to Italian media, if the suspension is confirmed for several years, Juventus will seek to unilaterally terminate the contract Pogba has signed until 2026.

Source: Football-Italia, Transfermarkt