France boss Didier Deschamps offers support to Paul Pogba on his return from suspension

When Paul Pogba was handed a four-year ban from soccer back in February, many questioned whether the Frenchman would ever play professionally again.

Pogba had failed a routine drug test, with non-endogenous testosterone found in his sample given after a Serie A match against Udinese in August 2023. The Italian Anti-Doping National Tribunal acted swiftly, handing down a four-year suspension.

Earlier this month, however, news broke that the ban had been reduced to 18 months on appeal. Given that the provisional suspension began in September 2023, the 31-year-old could be back on the field in March 2025. Pogba is expected to terminate his contract with Juventus but will find no shortage of suitors. A return to the French national team could even be on the cards.

French head coach Didier Deschamps explained: “I’ve spoken on the phone with him for a long time during this challenging period for him. Obviously, it’s very, very, positive news for him. At least now, he knows he can return to play football in March.”

“I ensure I remain in contact with and support all the players. I’ve known Paul from the very start, but when there are complicated moments, injuries, private issues, or suspensions like this one, the players know that I am available at any time and can communicate with them and with him in this case.”

Pogba’s last appearances for France came in 2022 but he was not in the squad that reached the final of the World Cup in Qatar. He had sustained a knee injury ahead of the tournament and had been forced to undergo significant surgery.

If he opts to leave European soccer a move to MLS may appeal to the World Cup-winning midfielder. Pogba owns property in Miami and was recently seen at an Inter Miami game. Alternatively, he could choose to reunite with international teammates Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris at LAFC.