Pogba, currently serving an 18-month suspension following a doping violation, has been linked with various clubs as he prepares for a return to the pitch. His recent comments about the opportunity of joining Chelsea have reignited speculation about his next destination, particularly considering the London club’s current state of rebuilding under manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Pogba’s suspension stems from testing positive for DHEA, a substance banned in professional sports, in August 2023. The initial four-year ban was reduced to 18 months after an appeal, allowing the Frenchman to resume training in January 2025. Despite his prolonged absence from competitive football, Pogba remains one of the most talented and sought-after midfielders in the world. His recent revelations about his interest in exploring opportunities at Chelsea have added another layer to the transfer saga surrounding his career.
In his first public statements since the appeal decision, Pogba acknowledged the challenges he has faced during his suspension but emphasized his determination to return to football at the highest level. “I have been through a very difficult time, but I am focused on coming back stronger,” Pogba said. “Chelsea is a great club, and I am always open to new opportunities. It would be an honor to play for a club of their stature, especially under a manager like Pochettino, who knows how to build strong, competitive teams.”
Chelsea’s interest in Pogba, if confirmed, would make sense given the club’s recent struggles in midfield. Despite spending heavily in recent transfer windows, Chelsea has lacked the consistency and creativity in midfield that Pogba could potentially provide. The departures of key players like N’Golo Kanté and Jorginho have left a significant void, and Chelsea is in the process of rebuilding a team capable of challenging for titles again. Pogba’s ability to dictate play from deep, combined with his experience in the Premier League, could make him an ideal candidate for Chelsea’s midfield overhaul.
For Pogba, a move to Chelsea would represent a fresh start in English football after a tumultuous second spell at Manchester United. His time at Old Trafford, which began in 2016 following a then-world record transfer from Juventus, was filled with highs and lows. While Pogba helped United win the Europa League and EFL Cup in his first season back, injuries and inconsistent performances marred much of his time at the club. His relationship with sections of the United fanbase became strained toward the end of his tenure, particularly as the team failed to compete for major honors on a regular basis.
A move to Chelsea could offer Pogba the chance to revitalize his career in familiar surroundings while stepping into a team with renewed ambition under Pochettino. “I’ve learned a lot from the difficulties I’ve faced, and I feel like I still have much more to give,” Pogba said. “Chelsea is a club that has shown they know how to win, and they are in a position to challenge for the biggest trophies. It would be a great project to be part of.”
The prospect of Pogba joining Chelsea has stirred mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike. Some view the move as a risk, given Pogba’s injury history and recent off-field issues, but others believe that the 2018 World Cup winner still has the talent and leadership qualities needed to make a significant impact at the top level. If Chelsea were to secure his signature, it would be seen as a statement of intent from the club as they look to climb back into contention for the Premier League and Champions League.
Despite the speculation, nothing has been confirmed yet, and Pogba remains focused on his rehabilitation and eventual return to the game. His suspension will keep him out of competitive action until early 2025, giving him ample time to consider his options and make a decision about his future. Whether he ends up at Chelsea or another top European club, Pogba’s return is sure to be one of the most closely watched storylines in world football.
As Chelsea continues its rebuilding phase, adding a player of Pogba’s caliber could be the key to restoring their dominance in both domestic and international competitions. For Pogba, this opportunity represents a potential turning point in his career—an opportunity to reestablish himself as one of the top midfielders in the game and to write a new chapter in his footballing legacy.
