Paul Pogba’s journey with Juventus has officially come to an end. The French midfielder and the Italian giants have mutually agreed to terminate his contract, paving the way for the 31-year-old to embark on the next chapter of his career.
The announcement comes as Pogba prepares to return to the field next March after serving a doping ban reduced to 18 months.
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End of an Era in Turin
Pogba’s second spell at Juventus, which was originally set to last until 2026, has been cut short by mutual consent. Reflecting on his time in Turin, Pogba expressed gratitude and nostalgia.
“My time at Juventus has come to an end,” Pogba shared. “It has been a privilege to pull on the shirt of the bianconeri and to share so many special moments together. I cherish the memories we made. They live on. Even in the most difficult moments over the past year, your support was crucial.”
Juventus also extended their best wishes to Pogba, with a statement reading: “Juventus Football Club and Paul Pogba announce that they have reached a mutual agreement for the termination of their contract as of 30 November 2024. The club wishes Paul the very best for his professional future.”
A Career Interruption and Road to Redemption
Pogba’s career faced a major setback after testing positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) last year. The substance was reportedly consumed unintentionally through a supplement prescribed by a doctor in Florida. Initially handed a four-year ban, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced it to 18 months, allowing Pogba to return to competitive action in March 2025.
In an interview, Pogba passionately defended his integrity, stating:
“I am not a cheater. I am someone who loves my sport. I love the game and I would never ever cheat. That’s for sure.”
The 2018 World Cup winner acknowledged the challenges he faced but vowed to emerge stronger, saying, “This is not me. I don’t like to cheat. I like to win fairly, and people know that.”
Looking Ahead: A Fresh Start
Now a free agent, Pogba’s next move remains a subject of speculation. Despite his silence on future plans, the midfielder has been linked to Inter Miami, where a new challenge in Major League Soccer could await him.
Pogba remains optimistic about regaining his place on the international stage. Speaking about his aspirations with the French national team, he remarked:
“That is what I hope. Of course, it is in my mind for sure, but I have to be ready for that. I have to win my place also in the national team again.”
Lessons Learned and Renewed Motivation
The enforced hiatus has provided Pogba with a unique perspective on his career and the sport he loves. Reflecting on the experience, he stated, “I kind of tasted what life is after the career, so it will definitely be another Paul Pogba. Same but even more motivation to be on the pitch and play until the end of my career.”
The midfielder emphasized his determination to return stronger, saying, “I don’t want to lose the level I am at, and if I can surpass it, this is what I want. Still the same player with a different hunger.”
As Pogba gears up for his return to football, fans eagerly anticipate where the next chapter of his illustrious career will unfold. Whether in Europe or across the Atlantic, one thing is clear—Paul Pogba’s story is far from over.
Read More: Why Sergio Ramos’ Return is Not What Real Madrid Needs: A Case Against Nostalgia
FAQs
Why did Paul Pogba leave Juventus?
Paul Pogba mutually agreed to terminate his contract with Juventus following his doping ban and to explore opportunities with a new club as a free agent.
When can Pogba return to playing football?
Pogba’s doping ban, initially four years, was reduced to 18 months. He will be eligible to return to competitive action in March 2025.
What caused Pogba’s doping ban?
Pogba tested positive for a banned substance (DHEA), which he unintentionally ingested through a supplement prescribed by a doctor in Florida.
What’s next for Paul Pogba?
Pogba has not revealed his next club but has been linked to Inter Miami, hinting at a potential move to Major League Soccer.
