Embattled Juventus midfielder and World Cup winner Paul Pogba has expressed his eagerness to return to the pitch and represent France in the 2026 World Cup. The 31-year-old, who was initially handed a four-year ban for using performance-enhancing drugs, has seen his suspension reduced to 18 months after a successful appeal.

In September 2023, Italy’s National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO Italia) provisionally suspended Pogba following a positive test for DHEA, a banned substance known to boost testosterone levels. The test, conducted after a match between Juventus and Udinese in August 2023, led to his initial four-year ban by the Italian National Anti-Doping Tribunal.

Ban Reduction and Pogba’s Future Plans

Following his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Pogba’s ban was reduced to 18 months. Pogba argued that his ingestion of DHEA was unintentional, as it came from a food supplement prescribed by a U.S.-based doctor. He will now be eligible to return to the field in March 2025.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport on Wednesday, Pogba shared his enthusiasm for returning to football and his desire to make a comeback at Juventus. “I only have one desire, and that is to play football again. The reality is that I am a Juve player, and I’m preparing to play for Juve,” he said.

Pogba also revealed his willingness to make financial sacrifices to continue with the Italian club. “I’m ready to even give up money to play for Juve again,” he stated, adding that he feels stronger and wiser after this ordeal.

Contract Status and Juventus’ Plans

Despite Pogba’s eagerness to return, Juventus is reportedly considering terminating his contract, which runs until June 2026 and is valued at €8 million annually. During his suspension, Pogba has been receiving only the minimum salary stipulated by the Serie A collective agreement—just over €2,000 per month.

Pogba’s contract situation remains a topic of discussion in the Italian media, with reports indicating that the club may take further action once he is eligible to return.

As Pogba eyes a comeback in 2025, he remains determined to represent France in the 2026 World Cup. “I want to come back, and the pitch will speak for me,” he said, emphasizing his readiness to compete and prove his worth once again.

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