WHAT'S NEXT FOR PAUL POGBA? WHY THE INJURY-PLAGUED JUVENTUS OUTCAST MAY END UP IN SAUDI ARABIA OR MLS AFTER HIS DOPING BAN IS REDUCED
Paul Pogba's football career, once filled with promise and global recognition, is now at a critical crossroads. Once heralded as one of the most talented midfielders of his generation, Pogba has seen his influence on the pitch wane due to a combination of injuries, inconsistent form, and off-field controversies. After rejoining Juventus from Manchester United in 2022, Pogba's second spell in Turin has been riddled with disappointment, and now with a doping suspension looming over him, his next move is highly speculated. As his future with Juventus appears increasingly uncertain, attention has turned to the possibility of Pogba seeking a fresh start elsewhere, with Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer (MLS) emerging as likely destinations.
Paul Pogba's Persistent Injury Struggles
Pogba’s recent football career has been overshadowed by his ongoing battle with injuries. Upon his return to Juventus in the summer of 2022, fans were eager to see him recapture the form that had previously made him one of the best midfielders in the world. Unfortunately, Pogba’s time back at the club has been anything but smooth. Knee injuries and other fitness concerns have plagued his availability, limiting him to just a few appearances across all competitions since his arrival.
The knee injury Pogba sustained during pre-season in 2022 forced him to undergo surgery, sidelining him for much of the 2022-23 campaign. Juventus had hoped he would recover in time to make a significant contribution during the second half of the season, but setbacks in his rehabilitation kept him off the pitch for longer than anticipated. These recurring issues have made Pogba's future at Juventus increasingly tenuous.
Moreover, injuries have robbed Pogba of his athleticism and agility, two key attributes that once made him so dominant. As a player whose style of play relied on his ability to drive forward with power and grace, his diminished physical capabilities have had a noticeable effect on his performances. Despite his technical ability and footballing intelligence, it’s clear that Pogba is no longer the dynamic midfielder he once was, which has raised questions about whether Juventus can afford to rely on him moving forward.
The Doping Scandal: A Stain on Pogba's Career
As if the injury struggles weren’t enough, Pogba’s career took another hit when news broke that he had tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone. The incident occurred after Juventus’ season opener against Udinese in August 2023. Pogba, who was not involved in the match but was part of the squad, was randomly selected for a doping test, and the results indicated the presence of a banned substance. While Pogba maintained that he had unknowingly ingested the substance through a supplement, the damage to his reputation was done.
Initially, Pogba faced a lengthy suspension of up to four years, which could have spelled the end of his professional career. However, after presenting his case and cooperating with investigators, Pogba’s suspension was reduced. Though the reduction offers a lifeline for his career, the doping scandal has tarnished his legacy and may deter European clubs from taking a chance on him in the future.
This setback comes at a time when Pogba was already struggling to re-establish himself as an elite footballer. Now, with the doping ban hanging over him, Pogba must confront not only his physical limitations but also the stigma associated with performance-enhancing substances. The combination of these issues makes it difficult for Pogba to imagine a smooth return to top-level football in Europe.
Juventus' Dilemma: What to Do with Pogba?
From Juventus’ perspective, Pogba’s situation presents a challenging dilemma. The club invested heavily to bring him back from Manchester United in 2022, but his unavailability due to injuries and now the doping suspension has left the team without the key player they had hoped to rely on. Despite his star power and immense talent, Juventus could be considering parting ways with the French midfielder as they look to rebuild their squad.
Pogba's wages are another factor weighing heavily on the club’s decision. Juventus, like many European clubs, has been forced to rethink its financial strategies in recent years, and offloading Pogba could free up significant funds. With his sporadic appearances and inability to contribute on the field, Juventus may see this as the right time to cut their losses.
Furthermore, Juventus has a history of moving on from players who no longer fit their long-term plans. The club has shown in the past that they aren’t afraid to let go of big names if it means strengthening the overall squad. Pogba could very well be the next high-profile departure if Juventus finds a suitable buyer.
Saudi Arabia: A Lucrative Opportunity for Pogba
In the wake of his struggles in Europe, Pogba could be enticed by the burgeoning Saudi Pro League. Over the past year, Saudi Arabia has made waves in the football world by attracting some of the game’s biggest names, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar. Backed by immense financial resources, Saudi clubs have been able to offer astronomical wages, making the league an attractive destination for players looking for a late-career payday.
For Pogba, a move to Saudi Arabia could offer several advantages. Firstly, the financial incentives would be hard to ignore, especially given the uncertain state of his career. At 31, Pogba could secure one last lucrative contract before hanging up his boots, ensuring financial security for his future.
Secondly, the Saudi Pro League provides a less demanding environment compared to Europe’s top leagues. While the league is competitive, the overall intensity and level of scrutiny are lower, which could allow Pogba to play at a level where his declining physical capabilities are less exposed. In a league with a slower tempo and less physicality, Pogba might still be able to showcase his technical skills and creativity.
The MLS: A New Challenge in the United States
Alternatively, Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States presents another viable option for Pogba. MLS has become a popular destination for players nearing the end of their European careers. The league’s appeal lies in its growing popularity, competitive balance, and the opportunity for players to take on new challenges in a market that continues to develop.
The recent arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has elevated the profile of MLS to new heights. Pogba could be intrigued by the idea of playing in a league that is steadily gaining more global attention and investment. Additionally, the lifestyle and opportunities that come with living in the United States may appeal to Pogba, who has always had a strong personal brand and presence on social media.
MLS also offers Pogba the chance to lead a team and be a key figure in promoting the league’s growth. With his global following and star power, Pogba could become one of the faces of MLS, much like David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimović before him. The challenge of helping elevate football in the U.S. could be an exciting proposition for a player who has already achieved so much in Europe.
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