French midfielder Paul Pogba is reportedly in advanced discussions with Marseille over a January transfer, following the reduction of his four-year suspension to 18 months.
The 31-year-old’s doping ban, handed down in February, was slashed after a successful appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
CAS ruled that Pogba did not intentionally ingest the banned substance DHEA, clearing the way for his return to football in March 2025.
A CAS spokesperson confirmed the ruling, stating, “An 18-month suspension with effect from 11 September 2023. The reasons for the decision will follow later.”
However, it is expected that Pogba will depart current club Juventus shortly, with his contract set to expire in 2026.
Renowned Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Pogba and Juventus are nearing an agreement to terminate his contract, rendering him a free agent.
This development has sparked intense speculation regarding Pogba’s next move.
Marseille Emerges as Front-Runner To Sign Paul Pogba
Despite reports linking Pogba to Major League Soccer (MLS), Marseille appears to be the frontrunner in securing his services.
Journalist Malick Traore reveals that Pogba has been engaged in advanced talks with Marseille for several weeks. The Ligue 1 side is poised to capitalize on Pogba’s availability, with a potential deal on the horizon for January.
Meanwhile, as per the CAS ruling, Pogba is eligible to resume training in January. Following that, Marseille are reportedly eager to secure his signature, potentially paving the way for Pogba’s return to French football.
With his suspension reduced and contract termination imminent, Pogba’s future is slowly taking shape.
A move to Marseille would mark a significant chapter in his illustrious career, offering the midfielder a chance to revive his fortunes in French football.
Patrice Evra Urges Marseille to Sign Pogba Amid Reunion With Mason Greenwood
Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra, a close friend of Paul Pogba, has publicly endorsed the idea of Marseille signing the talented midfielder according to reports.
Evra’s enthusiastic backing comes as Pogba nears a potential move to the Stade Velodrome.
Meanwhile, a move to Marseille would reunite Pogba with his former Manchester United teammate Mason Greenwood, who currently plays for the Ligue 1 side.
Paul Pogba, who expressed his happiness at the reduction of his suspension, will be gearing up to return to the football field as he gets back in shape.
The Frenchman’s statement reads: “Finally the nightmare is over. Following the decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again.”
“I always stated that I never knowingly breached World Anti-Doping Agency regulations when I took a nutritional supplement prescribed to me by a doctor, which does not affect or enhance the performance of male athletes.”
“I play with integrity, and although I must accept that this is a strict liability offence, I want to place on record my thanks to the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s judges who heard my explanation.”
“This has been a hugely distressing period in my life because everything I have worked so hard for has been put on hold. Thank you again for all the love and support. I just cannot wait to get back on the pitch.”
What’s next for Pogba?
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Pogba’s next move, with the Stade Velodrome emerging as an increasingly likely destination.
