Pogba suffers new setback as ‘DREAM’ transfer faces collapse

Robin Bairner

• 20 Dec 2024 07:40 GMT
• 3 min read

Paul Pogba’s chances of making an immediate return to one of Europe’s biggest clubs following a ban for a positive drug test appear to be on the rocks, with the side distancing themselves from the prospect.

Pogba will not be able to play until March after missing 18 months after being found guilty of taking DHEA while still a Juventus player.

The Turin club released the former Manchester United star is November and he is now a free agent seeking a club. As of January, he will be able to train again and there has been significant speculation as to where he might sign.

Manchester City had been linked with a sensational move for the World Cup winner, yet the hottest track has been to Marseille, where OM legend Dimitri Payet said he would be a “dream” addition.

Pogba’s prospects of returning to one of the biggest sides in his homeland, though, have suffered a setback, with sporting director Medhi Benatia distancing Marseille from the prospect.

“We have to be careful about the balance in our team,” he said when asked by RMC about the prospect of signing Pogba. “We already have high-performing players in the midfield.

“Paul knows the respect and affection I have for him. Beyond being a top player, he is a real leader. He has suffered a lot in recent seasons with physical problems. His body has let him down quite a bit. Then he had his suspension.

“Obviously, you see him on the market, you want to take a look. Today, can Marseille afford to bring back a player like Pogba if he is not physically ready and we have to wait six months to see him at his best?”

What are Pogba’s other options

Although Pogba may not be heading back to France, there are still other possibilities open to him.

Both MLS and the Saudi Pro League are linked with the midfielder, though with the latter preferring a clean-cut image for the players it signs, a switch to America looks arguably a better bet for the moment.