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In the latest round of transfer news, Manchester United considers offering temporary contracts to one of their previous stars, midfielder Paul Pogba, under firm terms. This is coming when 31-year-old Pogba admits having a big inclination towards going back into playing competitive football following a long absence from competitive games.
Pogba was tested positive for high testosterone levels in August 2023, warranting a September provisional suspension of the same year. Initially, he was given a four-year suspension, which was lessened to 18 months in October 2024 by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), recognizing that the banned substance was taken unknowingly through a prescribed dietary supplement. The decrease allows Pogba to resume training in January 2025 and join competitive games starting March 2025.
While under suspension, Pogba insisted on his innocence of wilful doping. In a recent statement after CAS ruled in favor of the governing body, he said, “I always confirmed that I never knowingly violated World Anti-Doping Agency rules. I play honestly.” His intent to return to elite football was clear, and intense personal regimens of exercise were undertaken as part of concerted efforts to arrive at peak conditioning upon return.
Sources indicate Manchester United is considering the re-signing of Pogba on a temporary basis, with the agreement likely including severe performance and behavior conditions. The move would be Pogba’s third with the club, having played from 2011 to 2012 before returning from 2016 to 2022. Throughout his stay, he helped the club achieve success, which includes a UEFA Europa League title in 2016-2017.
The possible re-signing of Pogba coincides with Manchester United’s future midfield needs. With future games, such as against Everton FC on February 22 and Ipswich Town on February 26, the introduction of a veteran midfielder would strengthen the team’s depth and versatility. The club is, however, being cautious, making sure that any deal benefits the team’s competitive aspirations as well as upholds the club’s standards of professionalism. With Pogba on the verge of returning to competitive action in March 2025, talks between his agents and Manchester United are likely to intensify. Both will weigh the benefits of a reunion, considering Pogba’s readiness to feature at the highest level and the club’s wish for the remainder of the season.
