Robin Bairner
Paul Pogba, Man Utd
© IMAGO
Manchester United could be about to lend a hand to Paul Pogba as he builds his way back from a ban for taking a performance enhancing drug.
Pogba, who has had two spells at Man Utd during his career, is currently a free agent after leaving Juventus after he was banned for 18 months for returning a sample positive for banned substance dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
The 31-year-old can return to training in January and can start playing competitively again in March.
Now Louis Saha has claimed that he has heard whispers that Man Utd could give him a platform to do just that.
The former striker explained: “I’ve heard some rumours that Paul Pogba will be offered the opportunity to come back and train with Manchester United in the New Year, and I think that would be a great opportunity for Paul.
“He needs to get back to his best level as quickly as possible, and training with top players will help him to do that. I think he would be thrilled to have the opportunity to go back to the club.”
Pogba has not played since August 2023
© IMAGO - Pogba has not played since August 2023
What next for Paul Pogba?
Although Pogba may train with Man Utd, there is no suggestion that he will be part of Ruben Amorim’s ‘mad dog’ revolution at the club. If that were to be the case, he would have to change his attitude and become far more willing to run.
Indeed, Saha’s comments come in direct contrast to those made by football transfer news reporter Fabrizio Romano a matter of days ago.
Romano said: “Reports of Paul Pogba set to train at Manchester United’s Carrington are not true.
“Pogba is not planning to train at any club as he’s working in Miami on [a] daily basis.
“As soon as he signs for [a] new club, Paul will be ready to go and train there.
“No contacts with United.”
Pogba is not expected to be short of options
© IMAGO - Pogba is not expected to be short of options
INEOS-owned Nice have expressed an interest Pogba but have played down their chances of signing him amid widespread interest.
“I don't think we have the possibility of bringing Paul Pogba to Nice,” sporting director Florian Maurice told L’Equipe Chaine.
“I think there are many clubs that will look into it even if it's been a long time since he played. There will be enormous competition - we won't be able to fight.”
Pogba has also been linked with potential transfers to MLS clubs or to the Saudi Pro League.