Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke has called on the club to offer Paul Pogba a return to Old Trafford, arguing that the midfielder is “far better” than their current options. Pogba, now a free agent, parted ways with Juventus last November following a doping ban, which has since been reduced to 18 months. The Frenchman will be eligible to play again in March, fueling speculation about his next move.
With United struggling for midfield depth, Yorke believes Pogba’s quality could be a valuable short-term solution. But would it be the right move for both parties?
Pogba’s Ban and Road to Redemption
After leaving Manchester United in 2022 for a second stint at Juventus, Pogba’s return to Serie A was marred by injuries and controversy. In February last year, he was handed a four-year doping ban, which was later reduced to 18 months after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that he had not intentionally taken a banned substance.
Despite the setback, Pogba remains one of the most talented midfielders of his generation. The 31-year-old World Cup winner has hinted at a potential return to Old Trafford, but questions remain over whether United would be open to a reunion.
United’s Midfield Woes and Pogba’s Potential Role
United have struggled in midfield this season, with key players missing significant time. Kobbie Mainoo has been sidelined until after the March international break, while Manuel Ugarte recently returned from injury, scoring against Everton.
Meanwhile, experienced midfielders Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have fallen out of favor under Ruben Amorim, with 21-year-old Toby Collyer often preferred when fit. Given the club’s struggles, Yorke sees Pogba as an upgrade over United’s current options.
“It’s an interesting take,” Yorke told Casinobeats.com. “I would give Paul Pogba a third chance, definitely, because of what United currently have and because of what we know he is capable of producing.
“With two months left [in the season], I would say, let’s have a look. Give him a contract. You’ve got time here to prove yourself.”
Rio Ferdinand: Invite Pogba to Train
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has also weighed in, suggesting that the club should at least invite Pogba to train and assess his current level.
“Surely he’s got to go somewhere,” Ferdinand said on his podcast Rio Presents. “Pogba at United? I’d go come in and train with us and let’s see what you’ve got. I’d do that. I would’ve done that already.”
While Ferdinand stops short of calling for a permanent deal, he believes allowing Pogba to train could give the club valuable insight into whether he still has what it takes to contribute at the highest level.
Would a Pogba Return Be the Right Move?
Pogba’s return would undoubtedly divide opinion. His time at United was filled with moments of brilliance but also inconsistency, injury setbacks, and off-field distractions.
His talent is undeniable, but at 31, his ability to perform at the highest level after a lengthy absence remains uncertain.
United face Ipswich Town in their next Premier League fixture, and with just one home win in their last six league games, the club is in dire need of solutions. Whether Pogba could be part of that fix remains to be seen.