Paul Pogba’s Juventus Future in Doubt as Suspension Nears End
TURIN, Italy — The future of Paul Pogba at Juventus is hanging by a thread as the club’s sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, indicated a lack of space in their current squad for the French midfielder. This announcement casts shadows over Pogba’s aspirations to rekindle his career with the Italian giants, even as his suspension for doping was recently shortened.
The 31-year-old has been sidelined since last year due to a doping ban. Initially set at four years, the suspension was reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, allowing Pogba to potentially return to the field in March 2025. However, Juventus appears to have moved on, as mentioned by Giuntoli in a candid pre-match discussion with DAZN before their clash against Lazio.
"Our position is very clear. Paul was a great player but he’s been out of action for a long time," Giuntoli said, underscoring the club’s decision to fortify its roster over the past two seasons in the absence of Pogba. "Last year and this year we were forced to invest in other players, and right now the squad is complete," he added.
Despite these challenges, Pogba maintains his desire to remain part of the Juventus setup, expressing his willingness to endure a significant salary cut if needed. Currently on a minimal wage since his suspension kicked in last September, his contract with Juventus, valid until June 2026, promises a lucrative eight million euros per year alongside potential bonuses.
However, Juventus, reeling from financial setbacks including losses nearing 200 million euros last season, seem to be charting a future without Pogba. Reports suggest the club, under the leadership of new coach Thiago Motta, is keen on revamping the squad and might explore terminating Pogba’s contract.
As the Old Lady trails league leaders Napoli by three points, sitting fourth in Serie A, the conversation surrounding Pogba’s return — or lack thereof — will continue to garner attention. The coming months will be crucial as the midfielder seeks clarity on his career’s next steps amid Juventus’s ongoing transformations.
