Paul Pogba, the talented French midfielder, will be back in action in 2025 after a major decision reduced his ban from football. Originally, Pogba was facing a four-year suspension due to a drug-related incident. However, it has now been confirmed that the ban has been reduced to just 18 months. This means that Pogba can start training with his club, Juventus, as early as January 2025. By March 2025, he will be allowed to play in official matches again, marking his return to competitive football after a long absence.
Why Was Pogba Banned?
Pogba’s suspension dates back to 2023 when he tested positive for a banned substance. This happened after a Serie A match between Juventus and Udinese. The substance detected in Pogba’s system was testosterone, a hormone that is naturally produced by the body but can be taken in synthetic form to enhance athletic performance. Such substances are strictly prohibited in professional sports, as they give athletes an unfair advantage.
The positive test result led to an immediate suspension, pending further investigation. The possibility of a four-year ban loomed over Pogba’s career, which would have been a significant blow for the 31-year-old star. Such a long ban could have ended his playing days at the highest level of football.
Why Was the Ban Reduced?
After months of legal proceedings, Pogba’s legal team worked hard to argue for a reduction in his ban. They claimed that the substance had entered Pogba’s body unintentionally. According to the defense, Pogba had taken a supplement that was contaminated with testosterone, and he had no knowledge that he was consuming a banned substance. While the anti-doping authorities initially pushed for a longer punishment, the argument convinced them to lower the suspension.
In October 2024, it was officially announced that Pogba’s four-year ban had been reduced to 18 months. The decision was based on evidence showing that Pogba did not intentionally use performance-enhancing drugs. Additionally, the midfielder will not have to pay any court fees as part of the reduced sentence.
What Happens Next?
With his ban reduced, Pogba will soon be able to resume training with Juventus. January 2025 will mark his return to the training ground, where he can prepare for the remainder of the season. Fans can expect to see him back in action for Juventus in March 2025, when he is eligible to play in official matches again.
This news brings hope to both Pogba and Juventus. Pogba’s return will strengthen Juventus, a club that has missed his presence on the field. For Pogba, this is a chance to rebuild his career and restore his reputation after a difficult period.
Although Pogba has faced several setbacks, including injuries and this suspension, his return offers a fresh start. It will be interesting to see how he performs after such a long time away from the game.
This drug ban is just one chapter in what has been a challenging few years for Pogba. Since returning to Juventus from Manchester United in 2022, Pogba has struggled with injuries that have kept him off the field for long periods. His inability to find consistent form has frustrated fans, who once viewed him as one of the most promising talents in world football.
In 2018, Pogba was a key player for France in their World Cup-winning campaign. His performances during that tournament highlighted his potential to be one of the best midfielders in the world. However, since then, his career has been marked by ups and downs, including injuries and this drug ban.
Now, with his return to football on the horizon, Pogba has the chance to remind the world of his talent. Fans will be watching closely to see how he performs once he steps back onto the field in 2025.
Paul Pogba’s return to action in 2025 is a positive development for both the player and his club, Juventus. With his ban reduced to 18 months, Pogba can focus on rebuilding his career and helping his team achieve success. While the suspension has been a significant setback, the reduced sentence allows Pogba to make a comeback and prove that he still has much to offer the football world. As he prepares for his return, the football community will be eager to see how this next chapter in his career unfolds.
