In a candid interview, Paul Pogba shared insights into his tumultuous career at Manchester United, his struggles with depression under Jose Mourinho, and his plans following an 18-month ban for doping. Pogba, who played a significant role in United’s successes and France’s World Cup triumph, revealed his personal battles and future aspirations as he looks to return to football.
Paul Pogba said: “I was really sad when I left Manchester at 19. At first, I cried. [Returning] in the end, it was good for everyone. For Manchester, for adidas, and for me. Everyone benefited from it.”
Pogba’s second stint at Manchester United, from 2016 to 2022, saw him contribute to the club’s Europa League, FA Cup, and League Cup victories. However, his time under manager Jose Mourinho proved challenging.
Paul Pogba continued: “I didn’t understand. I was a player with a big role in the team, and suddenly, I found myself on the bench. I wasn’t happy, and a football player who isn’t happy can’t perform well. I fell into depression without even realising it. Because no one teaches us what depression is. Until I started having holes in my scalp. I didn’t understand what it was. They told me it was stress.”
After leaving Manchester United, Pogba rejoined Juventus, but his career was interrupted by a doping allegation, resulting in a four-year ban that was later reduced to 18 months.
Paul Pogba said: “If I had been given a four-year sentence, I would have quit football. I didn’t want to say it publicly, but that’s what I thought.”
During his suspension, Pogba maintained his fitness by training individually and is now eager to return to competitive football.
Paul Pogba reflected: “I would take the ball and play by myself outside. I made do with what I had. But I didn’t want to stay in Turin. In the morning, I would drop my kids off at school, and it was right next to the training ground, what a pain… I didn’t understand. Why? They gave me the maximum sentence, which meant they really hadn’t listened to anything I told them. Everything that happened to me changed me. I saw what ‘real’ life was. I suddenly aged ten years.”
As he considers his next move, Pogba is evaluating offers from various clubs worldwide.
Paul Pogba continued: “First of all, I can’t wait to play. You know, it’s been so long since I played football. I never imagined I’d be free at this time of the season. I’ve never really experienced a transfer like this. Today, there are offers. Coming from all over. From all over. I want to see what suits me best. Because I am in a crucial period of my life and career. It’s a decision I’m going to take the time to consider.”
Pogba’s experiences have fueled his determination to succeed in the next chapter of his career.
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