Paul Pogba’s time at Juventus has come to an abrupt end after the club announced the termination of his contract, despite a significant reduction in his doping ban.
The 31-year-old French midfielder’s contract, originally set to expire in 2026, will now conclude on November 30, 2024, following mutual agreement with the Serie A giants.
The decision comes after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced Pogba’s four-year doping suspension to 18 months. The suspension stemmed from a positive test for testosterone following Juventus’ Serie A opener against Udinese in August 2023, a match in which Pogba did not play.
CAS ruled that the positive test resulted from an “erroneous supplement” prescribed by a doctor in Florida, partially absolving him while noting his failure to exercise sufficient caution as a professional athlete. With the reduction, Pogba can resume competitive football in March 2025.
Despite the reduction, Juventus opted to sever ties with the World Cup winner, citing his minimal contributions since rejoining the club in 2022 and ongoing off-field issues.
Pogba’s return to Turin, following a high-profile free transfer from Manchester United, was plagued by persistent injuries, sidelining him for most of the 2022/23 season.
He made only 10 appearances during that campaign and did not start a single match in the 2023/24 season before his provisional doping ban.
In addition to his health struggles, Pogba faced personal turmoil, including a high-profile extortion case involving his brother, Mathias Pogba, and others.
This series of setbacks undermined his second stint at Juventus, where he previously enjoyed immense success between 2012 and 2016, winning four consecutive Serie A titles.
In a heartfelt statement, Pogba expressed his gratitude to Juventus fans, saying, “You gave me a lot, more than I could ever say, and I’ll always keep with me the love you showed me. You’ll always be in my heart. Good luck.” His public appeal to continue playing for Juventus, even at a reduced salary, was ultimately declined.
Juventus’ decision also reflects a broader shift in strategy under coach Thiago Motta and sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, who have moved toward rebuilding the team with younger talents and high-impact signings.
The club invested heavily during the summer transfer window, securing midfielders like Teun Koopmeiners, Douglas Luiz, and Khephren Thuram, signaling a fresh start.
Currently sixth in Serie A but just two points behind leaders Napoli, Juventus appears determined to maintain momentum in their pursuit of a league title and Champions League qualification.
Pogba’s termination adds to the uncertainty surrounding his future in football. Once regarded as one of the brightest talents in the sport, his career has been overshadowed by injuries, legal troubles, and disciplinary issues.
The midfielder, who played a pivotal role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, must now rebuild his reputation and fitness before resuming his professional career in 2025.
This latest chapter underscores the challenges of maintaining consistency at the highest level of football and leaves questions about whether Pogba can reclaim his place among the sport’s elite.
