Paul Pogba’s much-anticipated return to football has been put on hold following the last-minute cancellation of the King’s Cup match in Dubai. Organizers cited “unforeseen circumstances” as the reason for the event’s postponement, which has now been rescheduled to February 2025.
The 31-year-old French midfielder, who recently saw his four-year doping ban reduced to 18 months on appeal, was set to make his comeback during the exhibition match. The World Cup winner’s original suspension came after testing positive for elevated testosterone levels following Juventus’ opening match of the 2023-24 season. With his ban ending in March 2025, Pogba is preparing to restart his career, though his contract with Juventus has already been terminated.
The King’s Cup match was poised to be a star-studded affair, featuring football legends such as John Terry and Paul Scholes. Pogba’s inclusion in the roster had generated significant excitement among fans eager to see the former Manchester United star back in action. However, the event’s postponement has dashed those hopes, at least temporarily.
In a statement, the King’s Cup organizers expressed regret over the delay:
Dear Football Fans, we regret to inform you that the King’s Cup Dubai has been rescheduled to February 2025 due to unforeseen circumstances. For refunds, please visit the Platinum List website and follow the instructions for your ticket. We will announce the specific dates for the rescheduled event soon. Thank you for your understanding and support.”
The exhibition match, intended to bring together football icons in a competitive yet celebratory setting, has left fans disappointed but hopeful for its future return. Ticket holders have been assured of refunds, with further updates on the rescheduled event expected in the coming weeks.
For Pogba, the delay marks another hurdle in his effort to reclaim his place in the football world, but fans remain eager to witness his official comeback when his suspension ends.