Paul Pogba warned football return will be 'tough' after 18 months away as Man United icon reacts to rumors of Red Devils signing free agent

Paul Pogba, who is linked with a third term at Manchester United, has been told that returning to football will be "tough" after 18 months away.

The World Cup winner will be free to continue his professional career in March 2025, having served a four-year doping penalty that was reduced on appeal. Juventus have decided to release Pogba from his contract in Turin.

Paul Pogba.
Getty Images Sport

The France international is currently a free agent and considering his options. There has been speculation that Pogba would follow Lionel Messi to MLS, while he might reconnect with former Manchester United teammate Mason Greenwood at Ligue 1 side Marseille.

It has also been speculated that Pogba will be given the opportunity to train with United in the new year as he works his way back to health, but ex-Red Devils defender Wes Brown has told 10bet that the 31-year-old might win another contract at Old Trafford: "I'm not sure about Paul Pogba returning to United for the third time. I don't see that happening. Paul is definitely an excellent individual player. I've always enjoyed the way he played.

"Once again, he receives a lot of criticism, yet there is no doubt about his individual potential. Being out for 18 months will be difficult for him; it will take some time for him to return to the heights we've seen him achieve in the past. I'm sure he'll train someplace, but training alone, away from world-class players, is a little different. Someone will undoubtedly pick him up, but I don't think it will be Manchester United, to be honest.

Pogba came through Manchester United's academy system and had Europa League and League Cup success during his second tenure in England. He is eager to get his career back on track, as he has important decisions to make in the near future.

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