Paul Pogba’s bid to rebuild his career has taken a significant hit, with reports claiming that Manchester United have refused to allow the French midfielder to train at their Carrington facility.
Pogba, who is now a free agent after parting ways with Juventus, is working to regain match fitness ahead of his planned return to competitive action in March 2025.
Pogba’s Suspension and Career Fallout
The 31-year-old midfielder’s career has been in turmoil since receiving a four-year ban in September 2023 after testing positive for a banned substance. However, that suspension was recently reduced to 18 months, enabling Pogba to start training with a club in January 2025. Despite the reprieve, Pogba’s search for a new team continues, as he looks to reestablish himself following an agreement to terminate his contract with Juventus.
Two Spells, Mixed Fortunes at United
Pogba’s history with Manchester United is well-documented. The French international had two spells at Old Trafford, initially rising through the academy ranks between 2009 and 2012 before making a high-profile return in 2016 for a then-world-record fee. Across those stints, Pogba made over 200 appearances and helped the club secure a League Cup and a Europa League title.
However, his time at United was marked by inconsistency and controversy, with criticism often aimed at his performances and perceived lack of commitment. These mixed memories are likely a factor in the club’s decision to distance themselves from his current efforts to rebuild.
United’s Decision: A Distraction Avoided
The decision to block Pogba from using United’s facilities appears to align with the club’s broader objectives under new manager Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese tactician, who took over at Old Trafford earlier this season, is tasked with rejuvenating a squad that has struggled for consistency in recent years.
Amorim’s arrival represents a fresh start for the 13-time Premier League champions, and his early days in charge are critical for establishing his vision and setting the tone for future success. Allowing Pogba to train at Carrington could have brought unnecessary distractions to an already crucial period of rebuilding.
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The Amorim Era: Stability Over Sentimentality
For Amorim, maintaining focus is paramount. With expectations high and a legacy of mediocrity to overturn, his priority will be on molding the existing squad into a cohesive, high-performing unit. While Pogba’s presence might have drawn media attention, it could also have overshadowed the work being done to restore the club’s fortunes.
The Frenchman’s return would have inevitably reignited debates over his United legacy and potentially detracted from the club’s current trajectory. Amorim’s approach appears to prioritize stability over sentimentality—a move likely to sit well with fans eager to see progress on the pitch.
Pogba’s Next Move: Career Reboot on the Horizon?
For Pogba, the rejection from his former club serves as a stark reminder of the challenges he faces in reigniting his career. With his suspension now nearing its end, the midfielder has a narrow window to prove his fitness and secure a new club willing to take a chance on him.
Despite his pedigree, including a World Cup title and multiple domestic honors, Pogba’s recent struggles may deter top-tier teams from offering him a lifeline. Still, his talent and experience could attract interest from ambitious sides seeking to bolster their midfield options.
Logical but Unforgiving Stance from United
Manchester United’s stance on Pogba’s return is both logical and pragmatic. The club’s focus is on the future, and revisiting a polarizing chapter of its past could jeopardize that momentum. While some may view the decision as harsh, it underscores the seriousness with which United are approaching their rebuild under Amorim.
Looking Ahead for Both Parties
As the January window approaches, Pogba’s options will likely become clearer. For United, the focus remains firmly on their present and future, with Amorim keen to solidify his influence. Both parties are charting their respective paths forward, and while their stories remain intertwined, it’s clear they are moving in different directions.
Whether Pogba can find a new home and recapture the form that once made him a global star remains to be seen. For now, however, Manchester United have drawn a firm line under a relationship that once promised so much but ultimately delivered far too little.