Paul Pogba is working hard to return to football after having his doping ban reduced to 18 months with the midfielder aiming to get back quick
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Paul Pogba is free to return to football
Paul Pogba is free to return to football(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Paul Pogba has made his intentions to return to the pitch abundantly clear in a new training video as he gears up for his much-awaited football comeback this year. The 32-year-old midfielder is now a free agent after his 18-month doping suspension expired earlier in March, having successfully appealed for a reduction from the initial four-year ban.
Having parted ways with Juventus by mutual consent, Pogba stands out as one of the most sought-after free agents available and is expected to make his next move before the 2025/26 season kicks off. He's currently focused on regaining match fitness ahead of resuming his career, with the MLS and Saudi Pro League being considered among his possible next stops.
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This week, the French international posted a new video on Instagram, demonstrating his dedication and hinting at an imminent return to the game.
"So we're here in Miami, training, try to get fit as soon as possible, you already know the story," Pogba said in the recent Instagram footage.
"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 is one of the hottest free agents in world football
Paul Pogba is training for a return to football(Image: (Image: INSTAGRAM))
With Pogba on the brink of a return, there's been mounting speculation about a potential second stint at Manchester United. Back in 2016, it was Jose Mourinho who orchestrated Pogba's high-profile comeback to Old Trafford from Juventus, in a then-world record £89million deal.
Pogba's stint at United was nothing short of tumultuous, culminating in his return to Juve on a free transfer after his contract ended in 2022. Ruben Amorim and INEOS' strategy, which focuses on youth recruitment, is unlikely to include the kind of short-term solutions that became a hallmark of the club's previous leadership.
While United might consider delving into the free agent market due to financial constraints, the era of relying on veteran players seems to be a thing of the past, with Pogba now falling into that category.
Ex-England striker Chris Waddle has weighed in on Pogba's career prospects, advising him to steer clear of the Premier League and suggesting Italy or France as more suitable destinations for 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 shared with 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."