Former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has shared a heartbreaking account of his struggles following a four-year football ban, claiming his wife abandoned him when he lost his fame and fortune.
In an emotional interview with Upshot Reports Online, the 2018 World Cup winner revealed that his 2023 doping suspension exposed the superficial nature of his relationships, including his marriage to Zulay Pogba.
“My wife abandoned me when I was banned from football and lost my fame. She was only there for the money and fame,” Pogba stated, adding, “The moment I stopped being Pogba the rich, famous player, people started avoiding me.”
Pogba, 32, was banned for 18 months (reduced from four years) by the Court of Arbitration for Sport after testing positive for testosterone in August 2023.
The suspension, which sidelined him until March 2025, led to a significant loss of income, endorsements, and public presence, with Pogba noting that invitations to high-profile events dried up.
“Everyone who used to invite me to fashion events said: ‘Pogba is of no use now.’ That showed me my true friends,” he said.
The French star, once among the world’s highest-paid footballers, described the betrayal by his wife as the most painful blow, stating, “She proved she never truly loved me.”
The couple, married since 2019 and parents to three children, appeared to have a strong bond, often sharing family moments on social media.
Some fans expressed sympathy, while others questioned the narrative, noting Zulay Pogba’s absence from recent public appearances.
Pogba’s revelations come as he prepares for a comeback with Juventus, with his ban set to end in early 2025. He has vowed to rebuild his career and personal life, emphasising resilience.
“I realised how empty life was without football, but it taught me who matters,” he said.
The story has reignited discussions about the pressures of fame, with analysts drawing parallels to other footballers, like Emmanuel Eboué, who faced similar personal losses after career setbacks.
— The Nairobi Times (@TheNairobiTimez) July 2, 2025
