Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has warned all Premier League managers against signing Paul Pogba, with the French midfielder set to leave Juventus on Nov. 30.
Juventus has reached an agreement with Pogba over the termination of his contract – which was set to expire in June 2026 – although the 31-year-old still cannot play until March 2025. The World Cup winner was officially given a four-year ban in February for a doping charge, but the suspension was reduced to 18 months starting from the provisional ban in September 2023.
Pogba will now search for a new club and can begin training in January in the hopes of making his long-awaited return to soccer. Pogba has already been linked with French club Marseille, but due to his wage demands, he could be destined for a Premier League return.
Manchester United made Pogba its record transfer in 2016 when spending £89.3 million on the midfielder, and it’s been suggested that he could return. However, Souness has told all Premier League bosses that signing Pogba is not worth the gamble.
Speaking on William Hill’s ‘Three Up Front‘ podcast, Souness said: “If I was a Premier League manager, there are no circumstances under which I would take a punt on bringing in Paul Pogba. He’s only played 39 games since the 2021/22 season.
“He is extremely talented, but he’s a wasted talent. The worst thing that happened to him was winning the World Cup because, from that point on, he just sat in his armchair. When Jose Mourinho was at Manchester United, he called Pogba a virus.
“He’s a lazy player, but midfield is a position that you have to take personally. It’s the only position on the pitch where you’re directly up against someone who’s trying to do the same job as you. I always wanted to have a better day than whoever I was up against, and the only thing I was taught to do was work harder than my opponent.
“Pogba just goes out to play and show off to everyone how cute and clever he is, rather than trying to make his opponent have a miserable day. He’s got all the ability and athleticism you need; he’s just missing something upstairs.”
The midfielder posted on Instagram to confirm his departure from Juventus, but failed to address the club and instead only focused on the fans. “There are moments when things don’t go as we wish, but one thing is sure,” Pogba wrote.
“The bond with you, dear fans, will forever be unforgettable. You gave me so much—more than I can possibly express with words. I’ll forever carry with me all the affection you gave me. You’ll always be in my heart. Good luck.”
