France football star Paul Pogba says he is ready to turn the page after his brother Mathias was sentenced in a high-profile extortion case.
Speaking through his lawyer on Friday, Pogba expressed relief at the verdict, which allows him to move forward after what he described as an extremely painful period.
Mathias Pogba was handed a three-year prison sentence—two of which are suspended—but will serve his time at home under electronic monitoring rather than in jail. The court also imposed a €20,000 fine on Mathias for his role in attempting to extort €13 million (£11 million) from the Juventus and Manchester United midfielder in 2022.
Five of Paul Pogba’s childhood friends were also convicted for their involvement in the extortion, kidnapping, and criminal gang activities. They received prison terms of up to eight years and fines ranging from €20,000 to €40,000.
“I can finally turn the page on this extremely painful period,” said Pogba, 31. “This conclusion is an opportunity for everyone to focus on the future.”
Despite the turmoil off the pitch, Pogba is determined to revive his career. Currently serving an 18-month doping ban—reduced on appeal—he will be eligible to play again in March 2024. However, his contract with Juventus was terminated last month, leaving his next move in football uncertain.
Pogba, a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup-winning squad, endured injury setbacks and inconsistent form before leaving Manchester United in 2022. With legal matters now settled, he hopes to fully focus on his professional comeback.
