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Paul Pogba first game after ban confirmed as ex-Manchester United hero joins him
Paul Pogba is set to make his long-awaited return to football at the end of this month. The former Manchester United midfielder will take part in a friendly match at the King’s Cup on November 30 in Dubai.
The game – expected to take place at the Al Maktoum Stadium – will feature several retired stars including John Terry, David Silva, Michael Owen, Franck Ribery, Clarence Seedorf and Edgar Davids. Pogba will be part of a team known as Hedge & Sachs Royals XI, marking an important step in his rehabilitation and return to action.
However, it’s said that Pogba won’t be able to play more than 15 minutes in each half. The same rule applies for Roberto Carlos, who’s playing for King’s XI, with both players wearing an exclusive ‘King’s Guard’ shirt. The ‘King’s Guard’ role adds an extra player to the pitch, meaning there could be 24 players on the field at the same time – if Pogba and Carlos are both used together.
The ‘King’s Guard’ players are also exempt from yellow and red cards, and can’t be flagged offside. Furthermore, if the match finishes as a draw, a penalty shootout including every single player will decide the result.
As well as those former footballers which have been mentioned, former United midfielder Scholes is another that will be involved. Confirming that on The Overlap’s Stick to Football podcast, Scholes said: “I’m away, I am playing a game in Dubai for charity. David Silva, Michael Owen, I think Pogba might be there. [Marouane] Fellaini…”
Pogba’s comeback has sparked notable excitement with the Frenchman having not played a competitive game since August 2023, after failing a doping test. He was, subsequently, handed a four-year ban, which looked like it might end his professional playing career.
However, following an appeal, the ban has now been reduced to 18 months. It means that Pogba is free to resume training in January and make his return to competitive action from March.
Despite hoping to continue his career at Juventus, Pogba’s contract was terminated, by mutual consent, last week. After his exit from Juventus, Pogba said in a heartfelt statement: “There are times when things don’t go the way we want, but one thing is certain; the bond I have with you, dear fans, will remain unforgettable.
“You have given me so much, more than I can express in words, and I will always carry with me all the affection you have given me. You will always be in my heart. Good luck @juventus.
Pogba is now a free agent. The Frenchman is currently training in Miami and is looking to join a club in Europe’s top five leagues, with Arsenal among those mooted as a potential destination.
manchestereveningnews.co.uk