SBOTOP Paul Pogba Exclusive: Midfielder Reflects on Retirement Thoughts and Eyes France Comeback After Ban Reduction

Paul Pogba, once hailed as one of the most talented and SBOTOP influential midfielders in world football, has faced a tumultuous few years. Injuries, inconsistent performances, and personal challenges have cast a shadow over his career. However, in an exclusive interview, the French star opened up about his recent struggles, the possibility of early retirement, and his renewed ambitions after seeing his ban reduced.

The Struggles Leading to Retirement Thoughts

The journey that led Pogba to consider retirement began with an onslaught of physical setbacks and off-field pressures. The 31-year-old has been plagued by injuries since rejoining Manchester United in 2016, with a series of recurring problems affecting his performances and ability to maintain form. More recently, a doping scandal emerged, casting another dark cloud over his career.

Pogba revealed that there were moments when the weight of these problems became too heavy to bear. “There were times when I seriously thought about quitting football altogether,” Pogba admitted. “The injuries took a toll on me, and with everything else that was happening, I questioned if it was all worth it. I love football, but I wasn’t enjoying it anymore. I wasn’t able to give my best.”

It wasn’t just his body that was suffering; mentally, the midfielder found himself in a dark place. The ongoing scrutiny from fans and media alike, especially during Manchester United’s struggles, began to affect him. “People forget that footballers are human. We go through ups and downs just like anyone else. But when you’re constantly under the spotlight, the pressure is multiplied. It became overwhelming.”

This emotional burden, coupled with his injuries and the suspension he faced following a doping violation, pushed Pogba to the brink of stepping away from the sport he has dedicated his life to. He recalled how close he came to making that decision: “There were conversations I had with my family, where I genuinely thought about walking away. It was the toughest period of my life.”

The Doping Ban: A Turning Point

The doping incident that saw Pogba receive a suspension further fueled speculation about his future in football. Pogba tested positive for a banned substance in a routine drug test, a situation that could have ended his career. Initially, he faced a potentially career-ending ban, which, if upheld, could have seen him miss several years of competitive football.

Pogba’s response to the ban was both swift and measured. He consistently denied any intentional wrongdoing, pointing to a misunderstanding or contamination as the likely cause. His legal team worked tirelessly to appeal the decision, and after months of uncertainty, his ban was reduced, giving him a lifeline in his career.

Reflecting on the ban reduction, Pogba expressed both relief and gratitude. “When I found out the ban was being reduced, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I knew I hadn’t done anything wrong on purpose, and I was determined to fight it. But it was a stressful process, not knowing what the future held.”

The reduction of his ban has allowed Pogba to return to training and start focusing on the next chapter of his career. “This whole experience has been a wake-up call for me. I’ve realized how much I still want to play, how much I still have to give to the game. I don’t want to leave football this way.”

Aiming for a France Comeback

With his ban now shortened, Pogba’s focus has shifted towards making a triumphant return to football. One of his biggest goals is to regain his place in the French national team. Pogba was an integral part of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning squad, and he still believes he can contribute to the team in the years to come.

“I’ve missed playing for France more than anything. Representing my country has always been one of the greatest honors of my career,” Pogba said. “I know it’s not going to be easy to get back into the team, especially with so many talented young players coming through. But I’m ready to work hard, to prove that I still belong.”

The French national team, under the guidance of Didier Deschamps, has continued to evolve since their World Cup triumph. The likes of Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga have emerged as the new faces of the squad, making competition for places fiercer than ever. However, Pogba remains undeterred.

“I understand that things have changed, and there’s a new generation of players now. But I believe in my abilities, and I know that if I’m fit and playing well, I can still offer something unique to the team. I’m not done yet.”

Pogba’s desire to return to the French national team is not just about redemption; it’s about fulfilling his long-held ambitions. “I want to play in another World Cup. I want to help France win more trophies. That’s what drives me now.”