Paul Pogba’s much-anticipated return to football, following an 18-month doping ban, has been abruptly postponed due to what organizers have described as “unforeseen circumstances.”
Pogba, 31, who was once a key figure at Manchester United and later at Juventus, faced a significant career disruption when he tested positive for elevated testosterone levels during Juventus’ opening match of the 2023–24 season. Initially handed a four-year suspension from professional football, the midfielder successfully appealed the decision, which led to his ban being reduced to 18 months. This made him eligible to resume competitive football in March 2025.
The scandal had caused his contract with Juventus to be terminated.
Pogba has been preparing for a fresh start in his career. His return to action was set to occur in a star-studded exhibition match, the King’s Cup, scheduled to take place in Dubai next week. This event was expected to feature football icons such as John Terry and Paul Scholes alongside Pogba.
However, in a late and unexpected announcement, the organizers revealed that the event had been rescheduled to February 2025.
In an official statement, the King’s Cup organizers expressed their regret over the abrupt change in plans:
“Dear Football Fans, we regret to inform you that the King’s Cup Dubai has been rescheduled to February 2025 due to unforeseen circumstances. For refunds, please visit the Platinum List website and follow the instructions for your ticket. We will announce the specific dates for the rescheduled event soon, so please stay tuned for updates. Thank you for your understanding and support.”
