Paul Pogba details doping ban heartbreak after completing Monaco transfer
Former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has revealed the emotional toll of his 18-month doping ban following his recent transfer to Monaco.
The 32-year-old has now resumed his professional career after signing a deal with the Ligue 1 side.
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the seasoned campaigner admitted the ordeal has profoundly changed his perspective on both football and life.
A timeline of isolation
The French World Cup winner endured a lengthy and highly publicised absence from the sport before finally returning to the pitch.
- August 2023: Provisionally suspended following a random drugs test after Juventus’ opening match.
- Early 2024: Initially handed a severe four-year ban from all football activities.
- October 2024: Suspension successfully reduced to 18 months following an appeal.
Exile from Juventus
During his suspension, the France international was completely isolated from his former club’s facilities.
He was strictly prohibited from training with his team-mates and had to maintain his fitness alone at home or in private venues.
“I’ve been staying at Juventus in Italy and I wasn’t even allowed to go inside. I was watching the stadium like this every day with my kids telling me, ‘Papi, when are you going to go to the game?'”
The inability to participate in practice matches to stay sharp was particularly devastating for the experienced playmaker.
A fresh start at Monaco
The veteran midfielder is now entirely focused on the future and hopes his vast experience will help guide a youthful Monaco squad.
Despite the anguish of being labelled a drug cheat by some observers, the former Premier League star believes the painful experience has fortified his character.
“I think that’s one of the things that got me most. It made me a better, more experienced person.”
He acknowledged that the traumatic period taught him to be considerably more cautious regarding who he chooses to trust.
Now profoundly grateful simply to be back on the pitch, the midfield maestro is determined to live in the moment and enjoy the remainder of his playing days.
