Paul Pogba, a name that resonates in the footballing world, has etched a unique and unforgettable legacy on the pitch. The French international, born on March 15, 1993, in Lagny-sur-Marne, France, has been one of the most dynamic midfielders of his generation. Known for his versatility, technical brilliance, and powerful playing style, Pogba has consistently demonstrated his prowess as a player capable of both controlling the game and delivering vital moments of magic. However, Pogba’s career has been one filled with both outstanding achievements and painful setbacks. His journey as a professional footballer offers a remarkable story of triumphs, challenges, and the unwavering pursuit of greatness.
Early Beginnings: A Star in the Making
Pogba’s football journey began at a young age, as he honed his skills at local French club Le Havre. Recognizing his immense potential, Pogba joined the prestigious Manchester United academy in 2009. It was here that he began to establish himself as a rising star. His development at the academy caught the attention of the senior team, and in 2011, Pogba made his debut for Manchester United. However, despite his talent, the young midfielder struggled for consistent playing time under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, who had a reputation for favoring experienced players over emerging talents.
Though Pogba’s time at Manchester United under Ferguson was short-lived, it was clear that the Frenchman had the potential to become a world-class player. Frustrated by the lack of opportunities, Pogba made the bold decision to leave United in 2012. This decision marked a turning point in his career and set the stage for his next chapter at Juventus.
A Rise to Glory
Pogba’s move to Juventus in 2012 proved to be a masterstroke, both for the player and for the club. In Italy, Pogba flourished under the guidance of coach Antonio Conte and quickly became one of the most dominant midfielders in European football. Over the next few years, Pogba’s development soared, and his performances on the field earned him global recognition. The Frenchman became an integral part of Juventus’ midfield, helping the club secure four consecutive Serie A titles from 2013 to 2016.
One of the defining moments of Pogba’s time at Juventus came during the 2015 UEFA Champions League, where the Italian club reached the final. Though they ultimately lost to Barcelona, Pogba’s role in their journey to the final cemented his status as one of the best midfielders in the world. His powerful runs, excellent vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game made him a standout player. His time in Turin elevated him to international stardom, and he began to attract interest from top clubs across Europe.
Manchester United Re-signs Pogba: A Record-Breaking Move
In 2016, after four years of success at Juventus, Pogba made a high-profile return to Manchester United. The deal, worth a then-world record €105 million, shattered transfer records and set the stage for Pogba to reassert his influence on the global stage. His return to United was met with great fanfare, and the club was eager to see Pogba fulfill the promise he had shown earlier in his career.
Pogba’s impact at United was immediate. Under manager José Mourinho, the Frenchman played a crucial role in Manchester United’s 2017 Europa League victory and EFL Cup triumph. His creative presence in midfield, coupled with his physicality and eye for goal, made him a vital asset for the team. Pogba’s standout performances were undeniable, and he quickly became one of the most important players in the squad.
However, despite his individual brilliance, Pogba’s time at Manchester United was marred by inconsistency. A series of injuries, combined with occasional struggles with form, prevented him from fully reaching his potential. Additionally, Pogba’s relationship with United managers, particularly José Mourinho and later Ole Gunnar Solskjær, was often strained. Tensions between the player and the coaching staff led to frequent public criticisms and rumors about Pogba’s future at the club. His behavior and attitude sometimes raised concerns, and it seemed that his time at Manchester United was drawing to a close.
A Difficult Exit and a New Chapter at Juventus
In 2022, Pogba made the decision to leave Manchester United once again and rejoined Juventus. His return to Turin was met with optimism, as both the club and the player hoped for a fresh start after a turbulent period at United. However, injuries plagued Pogba’s second stint at Juventus, preventing him from having the desired impact on the field. Despite the setbacks, Pogba remained determined to regain his best form and help Juventus return to the top of Italian football.
Yet, Pogba’s troubles took a dramatic turn in 2023, when he faced a suspension after testing positive for testosterone, a banned substance. The positive test led to an 18-month ban from professional football, effectively sidelining the Frenchman for a significant period. This suspension initially carried a four-year ban, which would have ruled him out until 2027, jeopardizing his career. However, after an appeal and negotiations with FIFA and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the ban was reduced to 18 months, allowing Pogba to return to professional football in March 2025.
A Comeback in the Making
Despite the challenges and setbacks, Pogba’s determination to return to football remains unshaken. The ban, while devastating, did not crush his spirit. During his time away from competitive football, Pogba focused on individual training to maintain his fitness and readiness for a return to the pitch. As a result, Pogba will be eligible to play again from March 11, 2025, and he is now a free agent, exploring potential opportunities to restart his career.
Pogba’s next move could be crucial in determining the final chapters of his illustrious career. Several clubs, including Inter Miami and Manchester United, have been rumored as potential destinations for the French midfielder. A return to Manchester United could present an intriguing storyline, given his past with the club and the potential for redemption. Alternatively, a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami could offer Pogba a fresh start in a new competitive environment.
Pogba’s International Triumphs
While Pogba’s club career has seen its fair share of highs and lows, his international career with France has been nothing short of exceptional. Pogba played a pivotal role in helping the French national team win the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where he scored a crucial goal in the final against Croatia. His performance throughout the tournament was exemplary, and his contributions were key to France’s triumph on the global stage.
In addition to the World Cup victory, Pogba has represented France in the UEFA Euro 2016, where the team finished as runners-up, and Euro 2020. His presence in the midfield has been indispensable, and his leadership on the international stage further solidified his place among the elite footballers of his generation.
The Next Chapter Awaits
Paul Pogba’s journey as a professional footballer has been filled with remarkable achievements, setbacks, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. From his early days at Le Havre to his rise at Juventus, his record-breaking transfer to Manchester United, and his subsequent struggles, Pogba has experienced the full spectrum of footballing emotions. His ability to overcome adversity and continue to fight for success speaks volumes about his character and determination.
As Pogba looks ahead to the next chapter of his career, the world will be watching closely. Whether he returns to a top European club or embarks on a new adventure in MLS, Pogba’s story is far from over. One thing is certain: Paul Pogba is not done yet, and his legacy as one of football’s most talented and enigmatic players will continue to unfold. With a renewed focus and a chance to redeem himself, Pogba’s comeback could be one of the most exciting stories in the world of football.
