Paul Pogba Reportedly Agrees to Juventus Free Transfer After Manchester United Exit
June 15, 2022
Paul Pogba is reportedly returning to Juventus, where he played from 2012 through 2016, on a free transfer following the conclusion of his contract with Manchester United.
ESPN's Julien Laurens reported Wednesday that Juve agreed to a four-year deal with the 29-year-old midfielder, who will formally announce the reasons behind his decision Friday on the Amazon documentary, The Pogmentary.
It's the second time Pogba will complete the United-to-Juventus switch. He started his senior career with the Red Devils in 2011 before joining the Italian club the following year.
The France international enjoyed ample success during his first stint with the Vecchia Signora, including four consecutive Serie A titles, before returning to Old Trafford.
Pogba's second stint with United didn't yield nearly as much success as the club raised just two trophies, the Europa League and EFL Cup titles in 2017, and his role diminished throughout the 2021-22 season. He tallied one goal and nine assists in 20 Premier League matches and no goals or assists in six Champions League appearances.
Last week, the midfielder explained on Uninterrupted (h/t ESPN) he was using his opportunity to move on a free transfer to find the best personal situation.
"I need to enjoy what I do because otherwise I cannot perform well," Pogba said. "I don't want to be thinking negatively. We can be losing games, trophies but you have to be happy and enjoy yourself—that's what I'm looking for."
The 2018 World Cup champion, who's expected to help France defend that title in Qatar starting in November, opted for Juventus amid reported interest from Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.
He'll attempt to provide a boost to the Juve attack. In 2021-22, the club finished fourth in the Serie A table and got knocked out of the Champions League in the round of 16.
Pogba, who's scored 34 goals in 178 matches across all competitions for Juventus, is a strong bet to produce a bounce-back term starting in August.