French footballer Paul Pogba revealed on Sunday that he is in discussions with a club about making his return to football, following the conclusion of his doping suspension.
While Pogba did not name the club during his interview on French television, sources close to him indicated that Ligue 1 side Monaco is leading the race for his signature.
The 32-year-old former France international is looking to revive his career after enduring three tumultuous years marked by injuries, personal turmoil, and legal battles.
Pogba, who previously starred for Manchester United and Juventus, faced a string of fitness setbacks that saw his form dip and his tenure at United end in 2022. His return to Juventus did little to revive his fortunes, as injuries persisted.
Matters took a further turn when Pogba tested positive for a banned substance after a match in Italy in August 2023. Initially handed a four-year suspension, the ban was later reduced on appeal to 18 months, allowing him to resume playing from March this year.
“It was extremely tough,” Pogba admitted, but said he is now focused on returning to full fitness. “I’m mentally ready, physically ready—it’s only a matter of time before I’m back on the pitch.”
Pogba also addressed the high-profile extortion case that rocked France, involving his older brother Mathias and several of his childhood friends.
In December, Mathias was sentenced to one year in prison for his role in a plot to extort €13 million from the 2018 World Cup winner.
Five other men received prison terms of up to eight years after being convicted of kidnapping, extortion, and involvement in organised crime.
Despite the betrayal, Pogba said he has resumed contact with his brother, who is serving his sentence with an electronic tag.
Pogba recalled the harrowing moment in 2022 when he was held at gunpoint by masked men demanding money.
“At first I was prepared to pay, but I eventually broke down,” he said. “I decided to speak out, even if it cost me my life. I refused to throw away my money like that.”
Reflecting on his difficult period, Pogba said, “I’ve learned a lot. I’ve done a lot of cleaning around me and refocused on my family and my children. I’m a different person now.”
