‘In Talks with a Club’: Pogba Plans Comeback After Doping Ban, Reunites with Brother

‘In Talks with a Club’: Pogba Plans Comeback After Doping Ban, Reunites with Brother

PARIS, June 23 — Former France international Paul Pogba, aiming to revive his football career following a doping ban, revealed on French television Sunday that he is currently in talks with a club — which sources close to him identified as Monaco.‍

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PARIS, June 23 — Former France international Paul Pogba, aiming to revive his football career following a doping ban, revealed on French television Sunday that he is currently in talks with a club — which sources close to him identified as Monaco.

The 32-year-old also shared that he has reconnected with his brother Mathias, who was sentenced to a year in prison last December for his role in an attempt to extort €13 million (RM64 million) from the 2018 World Cup winner.

After a turbulent few years marked by injuries and inconsistent form, Pogba departed Manchester United in 2022 and returned to Juventus. However, his struggles continued, culminating in a failed drug test after a match in Italy in August 2023. Initially handed a four-year ban, the suspension was later reduced to 18 months on appeal and officially ended in March.

“It was very, very hard,” Pogba admitted. He said he's now focused on returning to professional football: “I’m talking to a club. Mentally and physically, I’m ready. It’s just a matter of time.”

Multiple sources confirmed that the club he’s negotiating with is Ligue 1 side Monaco.

The extortion case that implicated six men — including three of Pogba’s childhood friends and his brother — shocked the nation. All six were convicted of crimes ranging from extortion and kidnapping to criminal conspiracy, receiving prison terms of up to eight years and fines.

Mathias Pogba is serving his sentence under electronic surveillance rather than behind bars. “We’re in contact. We’ve spoken — as a family,” Paul said. “There’s a blood bond. Of course, there’s been a scar. But we’re moving forward. Only time will bring answers.”

“Our goal is to stay united as a family — that’s what matters most. It’s hard, I won’t lie. I was deeply hurt. Things aren’t the same, but we’re staying in touch,” he added.

Pogba also spoke about the 2022 incident when he was held at gunpoint by two masked men demanding money. Initially prepared to pay, he later changed his mind.

"Afterwards, I broke down,” he said. “I chose to speak out — even if it meant risking my life — rather than give away my money like that.”

Reflecting on the ban and court ordeal, Pogba said the experience has profoundly affected him.

“I’ve learned a lot during this time,” he said. “I’ve also cleaned up the people around me. Now, I’m much closer to my family and my children.” — AFP

The 32-year-old added that he has reconnected with his brother Mathias, who was sentenced to a year in prison last December for his role in an attempt to extort €13 million from the 2018 World Cup winner. — AFP pic

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