Pogba considers Marseille move as doping ban cut to 18 months

Despite a lengthy suspension due to doping, Paul Pogba (31) could be embarking on a new challenge. French Ligue 1 club Marseille has expressed interest in acquiring him.

British media outlet Goal.com reported on the 28th that "Marseille President Pablo Longoria has not ruled out the possibility of signing Pogba."

Pogba is a midfielder who represented the French national football team. He was once regarded as one of the world's best midfielders during his stints with Manchester United and Juventus. However, he suffered a significant blow to his career when he tested positive for doping in 2023.

At the time, Pogba was found to have taken the drug DHEA, which raises levels of Namsung hormones. Initially, the suspension was for four years.

Pogba's camp expressed feelings of injustice. His agent claimed that "there was no intention whatsoever and no desire to break the rules" and stated, "We are awaiting a contrary result."

Subsequently, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced Pogba's suspension to 18 months. CAS explained, "The supplement was provided in Florida under a doctor's prescription. Pogba did not take it intentionally."

With the suspension shortened, Pogba has been eligible to register as a player since last month. After terminating his contract with Juventus, he has become a free agent but has not yet found a new team.

Meanwhile, Marseille has emerged as a strong candidate for his next destination. Initially, Marseille was linked to Pogba, but Manager Roberto De Zerbi drew a line, stating, "As long as I am the manager, I will not disrupt the balance of the locker room."

However, the club's executives have a different view. President Longoria stated, "There was an opportunity, and we have had several discussions. We have seriously considered this possibility," adding, "Pogba is a player of significant caliber when thinking about the future. Such names are always valuable in the market."

He also added, "We are currently focused on the season. In three weeks, we will have a clearer picture. Players like Pogba available in the market are certainly attractive."

As interest in Pogba's return scenario intensifies, attention is drawn to whether a transfer to Marseille could be his new stepping stone.

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