- Pogba attends France’s Euro 2024 game
- Fans chant suspended footballer’s name
- Was handed four-year global ban
WHAT HAPPENED?
Pogba received a warm reception from fans as he attended his country’s Euro 2024 round of 16 clash against Belgium on Monday in Dusseldorf. The player was spotted in the stands as the French supporters screamed and chanted his name.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The former Manchester United star has been hit with a four-year suspension for doping offences since September 2023. The player was found to have elevated levels of testosterone in his system which led to the multi-year global ban. However, he continues to remain on the books of the Bianconeri. One supporter even held up a sign showing support for Pogba.
WHAT PAUL POGBA SAID
Ahead of Les Bleus’ round of 16 clash, Pogba spoke to BFMTV where he said: “I feel good about it. I’m happy to be here to support my team. We know it’s a super important match. Now, if you lose, you’re out. I wish the best to everyone who will be on the pitch. We can see the fans. Everyone is excited. It’s important that they’re there, that they help this team. After that, it’ll be on the pitch.”
He added: “We have players, quality. We know that there is a little rivalry during these matches against Belgium. It will be a very good match for both teams. It will be a match that will define the Euro for the French team. The coach has taken determined players, who are hungry. It will be a very good test. It’s the competition, at the Euro there are no easy matches.”
WHAT NEXT FOR PAUL POGBA?
The 2018 World Cup winner has maintained his innocence since the very first day and he intends to take his case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).