Paul Pogba made his return ambitions crystal clear in a recent training video as he prepares for his highly-anticipated football comeback this year. The 32-year-old midfielder is free to join a new club after his 18-month doping ban expired earlier in March, having successfully appealed to get a reduction from four years.
After mutually terminating his Juventus contract, Pogba is among the most attractive free agents on the market and will likely make his next move before the 2025/26 season. He is currently working hard to regain match fitness before continuing his career, with Major League Soccer and Saudi Pro League among his potential destinations. This week, the Frenchman shared a new video showcasing his efforts, making it clear that he was eyeing a return to football as soon as possible.
"So we're here in Miami, training, try to get fit as soon as possible, you already know the story," Pogba explained in a recent Instagram video.
"I'm here, and there are some fans around, United fans and Barcelona fans. It's big up to all of them. This gentleman [the Barcelona fan] tried to challenge me."
Pogba's impending comeback has naturally sparked speculation surrounding a potential second return to Manchester United.
In 2016, Jose Mourinho brought the World Cup winner back to Old Trafford from Juventus in a then-world record £89million transfer.
Pogba's time at United was turbulent, to say the least, and he rejoined Juve on another free transfer when his contract expired in 2022.
Ruben Amorim and INEOS' youth-focused recruitment strategy likely doesn't involve short-term fixes that became synonymous with the club under the old regime.
United could explore the free agent market amid financial limitations, but the days of calling on ageing players are over. Pogba fits into that category.
Former England forward Chris Waddle has offered a verdict on Pogba's future, urging him against a Premier League move and naming Italy or France as the countries best suited to the midfielder.
"It's a hard one. He's never really done it in England, has he, Paul? He came on the scene, and he looked the part and went to Italy," Waddle told 10bet.
"I think that sort of football suits him. It's a bit slower; it's not box-to-box, and it's more patient.
"Weather conditions sometimes dictate the pace abroad. The sun, the heat. I think he was more suited to that type of game rather than the hustle and bustle of England.
"For me, France, Marseille would be a good move, and obviously, the Italian league would be a good move for him. I think he's best suited to one of those two leagues."