Paul Pogba’s time at Juventus appears to be coming to an end as the club and player are nearing an agreement for a mutual contract termination without any severance pay. This development comes in the wake of Pogba’s doping ban being reduced from four years to 18 months, allowing him to return to action in March 2024.
Corriere dello Sport report that the decision to part ways has been in the works since October 7th, when the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) announced the reduction of Pogba’s suspension. Juventus had been prepared for this outcome since September 2023, when the French midfielder tested positive for DHEA, a substance prohibited by WADA for over a decade.
During his suspension, Pogba’s salary was reduced to the minimum wage, but his potential €8 million net annual contract would be reactivated if an agreement is not reached. Juventus has the option to unilaterally terminate the contract due to the doping violation and could potentially seek damages for breach of contract.
However, a unilateral termination might lead to legal complications, similar to the recent Cristiano Ronaldo case. To avoid such scenarios, both parties are working towards a mutual agreement.
Juventus’ stance on Pogba’s future has been made clear by Technical Director Cristiano Giuntoli, who stated that the team is now complete and has moved on. This effectively rules out any possibility of Pogba’s return to the club.
Despite Pogba’s expressed willingness to take a pay cut to continue playing for Juventus, it seems the club has made its decision. The French midfielder will likely have to accept the reality of his situation and look for opportunities elsewhere to revive his career.
