Juventus is working on terminating Pogba's contract

Pogba’s doping suspension was initially a major blow to his career, with a potential four-year ban that could have effectively ended his time at the top level of football.

However, this week, the suspension was reduced to eighteen months after an appeal. This revision offers a glimmer of hope for the French midfielder, as he will be able to resume training as early as January 2025 and return to competitive matches by March of that year. While this news provides some relief for Pogba, the uncertainty surrounding his future at Juventus casts a shadow over his potential comeback.

Despite still being under contract with Juventus until 2026, reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport and Tuttosport suggest that the club is working on terminating his contract. The two Italian outlets claim that Pogba’s lawyers have already initiated discussions with Juventus regarding his exit. It appears increasingly likely that the contract will be mutually terminated, or alternatively, Juventus may choose to unilaterally sever ties with the player. The club is legally permitted to terminate the contract because Pogba was suspended for violating anti-doping regulations, a serious breach that gives Juventus the right to end the agreement.

Pogba’s situation is delicate, not just because of the suspension but also due to his overall time at Juventus since rejoining the club in 2022. After returning to Turin from Manchester United in what was hoped to be a revival of his career, Pogba struggled with injuries and was unable to make the expected impact. His latest suspension came after a positive test for testosterone, a case that shocked the footballing world and further derailed his Juventus career.

Although the doping ban has now been reduced, the damage to Pogba’s career and reputation is significant. Juventus, who have been dealing with a variety of internal and external issues over the past seasons, appear to be ready to part ways with the 2018 World Cup winner. The club’s decision to explore contract termination suggests that they may no longer see Pogba as part of their future plans, despite the initial excitement that accompanied his return.

Pogba himself remains defiant and optimistic about his future. In a heartfelt statement released after his suspension was shortened, he expressed gratitude to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for considering his case and listening to his side of the story. "I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again," Pogba said, reaffirming his belief that he never intentionally violated the anti-doping regulations. He emphasized his commitment to playing with integrity and expressed his frustration at having everything he worked for put on hold due to the ban.

Pogba also extended his gratitude to his supporters during what he described as a “painful period” in his life. The midfielder has faced multiple challenges over the last few years, from injury setbacks to now this doping case, but he remains determined to return to the field. "I can’t wait to be back on the field," he said, signaling his desire to reclaim his place in the sport, whether at Juventus or elsewhere.

While Pogba is hopeful for his return to football, the question remains whether he will continue his career at Juventus or move on to a new chapter. Should Juventus terminate his contract, Pogba will need to find a new club willing to take a chance on him after this tumultuous period. His talent is undeniable, but with recent struggles, including injury, form, and now the doping scandal, it could be a challenge for him to attract the same level of interest that he once commanded in the transfer market.

For Juventus, cutting ties with Pogba might be seen as a necessary move to distance the club from the controversy and focus on rebuilding. With several young talents emerging and a clear need to restructure the squad, Pogba's departure could free up resources and space for new signings. Whether Pogba’s future lies in Italy or elsewhere, the coming months will be critical as he prepares to make his return to football.

In the broader context of his career, Pogba’s journey has been filled with highs and lows. From his breakthrough years at Juventus during his first spell to his high-profile transfer to Manchester United and his triumphant World Cup victory with France, Pogba has experienced the peaks of football success. However, injuries, inconsistency, and now this doping suspension have marred the latter stages of his career. As he looks ahead to 2025 and the opportunity to play again, Pogba will undoubtedly be eager to prove that he still has much to offer at the highest level.

Only time will tell if he can make a successful comeback, but for now, his future remains uncertain as Juventus seemingly moves towards ending their association with the French midfielder. What is clear is that Pogba’s story in football is far from over, and his eventual return to the pitch will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.