French midfielder Paul Pogba appears to have shifted his focus away from Juventus, despite being contracted to the Italian club.
Pogba’s recent social media post, featuring four photos of himself in the French national team jersey, omitted any mention of Juventus.
The 30-year-old French midfielder expressed his longing to return to international duty, stating, “I miss you… a lot!!! I’m getting ready to return. I promise.”
Meanwhile, this declaration comes amidst speculation surrounding his future at Juventus.
Earlier statements suggested Pogba’s intention to rejoin Juventus in March, following the conclusion of his doping suspension, reduced from four years to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
However, Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli hinted at the club’s desire to part ways with Pogba, citing his prolonged absence and the squad’s current composition.
Giuntoli stated: “The club’s position is very clear: Paul has been a great player, but he has been sidelined for too long. We have invested in other players, and the squad is full.”
Pogba’s recent actions suggest a growing rift between the player and the club.
He has vacated his Turin residence, which will now be occupied by Argentine midfielder Nico Gonzalez.
Pogba, Juventus’ highest earner, is under contract until summer 2026 on a weekly wage of €500,000 (£418,000/$543,000).
However, Pogba’s current salary has been significantly reduced to approximately 2,000 euros per month.
A potential return to play would require Juventus to reinstate Pogba’s original salary, a prospect the club seems unwilling to consider.
Pogba’s second return to Juventus Marred by injuries and ban
Juventus fans eagerly awaited Paul Pogba’s return from Manchester United to the club in 2022, but his comeback has been marred by setbacks.
The midfielder’s stint in England, which saw him win only a League Cup and Europa League during his six years away from Turin, ended in disappointment as he left Old Trafford on a free transfer when his contract expired.
Since rejoining Juventus, Pogba has struggled with injuries, limiting him to just one start and 12 appearances before being suspended.
The Frenchman has not played competitively for over 14 months, with his last game being a brief substitution appearance in a 2-0 win against Empoli in September 2021.
As the rift between Pogba and Juventus widens, the midfielder’s focus on the French national team may signal a permanent departure from the Italian club.
Paul Pogba’s Future Uncertain
As Paul Pogba’s rift with Juventus deepens, speculation surrounding his next move intensifies.
The French midfielder’s recent social media post, showcasing his passion for the French national team, has sparked rumors of a potential return to Ligue 1.
French giants Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille are reportedly interested in securing Pogba’s services.
PSG had previously expressed interest during Pogba’s return to Juventus, while Marseille has emerged as a recent suitor.
Meanwhile, Pogba himself has hinted at the allure of Ligue 1, stating, “The possibility of playing in Ligue 1? I’m focused on my current club, but one should never say never.”
A move to France would mark Pogba’s return to his homeland after a decade abroad.
His last stint in Ligue 1 was with Le Havre, before joining Manchester United’s youth ranks in 2011.
With his focus now firmly on the French national team, a slot in a French club seems increasingly likely.
Alternatively, the Saudi Pro League (SPL) presents another lucrative option.
Pogba’s visit to Al Ittihad’s training ground last summer sparked speculation about a potential move.
As a practicing Muslim, the SPL’s cultural and financial appeal may hold significant sway.
What’s next for Paul Pogba?
As Pogba’s Juventus departure appears imminent, the midfielder’s next destination remains uncertain. It remains to be seen whether he will find a path back to the pinnacle of European football or transition to less prestigious League.
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