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WHAT HAPPENED?
Pogba recently saw his doping ban reduced from four years to 18 months, which has sparked speculation over his next move. The Frenchman has been out of action since 2023, but will be able to resume training again from January 2025 and will be eligible to play in matches from March. With an agreement expected to be made with Juventus to terminate his contract, the 31-year-old has been tipped to make a Premier League comeback. But former Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham defender Gallas does not think that is a good idea, as he sees similarities between Pogba and Blues midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who has struggled to convince in England since his big-money move from Benfica.
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Getty Images SportWHAT GALLAS SAID
Speaking to Prime Casino, Gallas said: “No, I don’t think a Premier League club should take a chance on Paul Pogba. I don’t think Paul can come back to the Premier League for one reason. I don’t think the Premier League suits him. We were talking about Enzo Fernandez, and we questioned whether he is the type of player who has the attributes to play in the Premier League, Pogba is the same. For Paul, I think Spain and Italy suits him.
“Especially now, because he didn’t play for almost one year and a half so it will be hard for him, the physical side of the game. Even if he has the desire to come back and show the world that he is still a great player, the problem is that when you haven’t played for one year, unfortunately, you’re more likely to get injured. You put so much pressure on your muscles, it’s hard to stay fit.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Pogba has played 157 times in the Premier League before, scoring 29 goals and assisting 38. The Manchester United academy graduate has commanded some hefty transfer fees during his career but as a free agent, English clubs may be more inclined to pick him up on a short-term deal. However, his wages may still be an issue for most outside of the top six.
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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR POGBA?
The World Cup winner will continue to work on his fitness until the end of the year but once we turn over into 2025, it will be full steam ahead for Pogba as he looks to hit the ground running on his return.
