Could Paul Pogba quickly return to competition after his suspension for doping, which will end next March? The question animates the debates, but the answers are not reassuring. While the player’s talent is beyond doubt, concerns are growing about his ability to become competitive again in such a short time.
For some observers, two years away from the field constitute a colossal challenge. A prolonged absence leaves its mark, both physically and mentally. “Nothing replaces the intensity of matches”, said a former teammate of Pogba in the France team. For him, imagining a successful return in the spring would be illusory.
A former teammate dampens optimism around Pogba.
Longer deadlines mentioned for Pogba
Benoît Trémoulinas, guest Tuesday evening on L’Équipe de Greg, delivered a frank analysis of the situation. “Whether he will be ready for March? I don’t think so. Absolutely not. It will be ready next September,” he confided, recalling his own experience of a difficult return after a long period of inactivity. According to him, Pogba will need a stable environment, a club ready to support him for six months without demanding immediate results.
The former Sevilla full-back also highlighted the physical risks for Pogba if he played again too quickly. “He will play one or two matches and will fart “, he warned. Patience, according to Trémoulinas, will be the key to allowing Pogba to return to an acceptable level, at the cost of several months of intensive preparation.
