Paul Pogba - the ultimate wasted talent
The former Manchester United player, who struggled during his time with the club, could have potentially won a Ballon d'Or. However, a doping ban lasting four years will likely overshadow his career, turning it into one of the sport's most unfortunate tales.
In the compelling movie "A Bronx Tale" by Robert De Niro, the young main character, Calogero 'C' Anello, comes to the realization that the most disheartening aspect of life is squandered talent, and the decisions one makes have a lasting impact on their destiny.
Paul Pogba serves as a poignant example. Once the world's most expensive player, he seemed destined to become one of its greatest. Gianluigi Buffon, an icon of Italian football, noted how Pogba's remarkable blend of physical presence and extraordinary skill left Juventus players in awe. Additionally, the legendary Ronaldinho even predicted Pogba would claim the Ballon d'Or. Upon his return to Manchester United in 2016, 'The Theatre of Dreams' presented him with the platform to fulfill his potential. However, Pogba now appears to be nearing the end of his peak performance, a casualty of his own poor decision-making.
Certainly, given the setbacks caused by injuries and a lack of discipline, the prospect of Paul Pogba regaining his career momentum seems bleak. His recent four-year ban resulting from a failed anti-doping test further diminishes the likelihood of a successful comeback.
Is Pogba's time over?
Pogba's era of dominance in football has come to an end. The prevailing sentiment following Thursday's announcement of his suspension is one of sorrow. A player with immense talent may never grace top-tier football again, and even if he does, he is unlikely to reach the heights he once achieved during his early years at Juventus or with the French national team. Nevertheless, in Turin, there is a palpable sense of relief, which existed even before news of Pogba's failed drugs test surfaced. It was evident that his prime had passed, with his substantial salary becoming a burdensome weight for a financially struggling club.
The commencement of Pogba's decline
During the summer of 2022, Juventus had every reason to celebrate securing Paul Pogba from Manchester United for the second time, this time on a free transfer. Pogba eagerly embraced the opportunity for a fresh start, but in reality, it marked the initiation of the decline in his career.
Pogba continued to grapple with persistent injury problems, and what exacerbated the situation was the widely held belief that he was responsible for his own predicament. In a misguided and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to represent France at the 2022 World Cup, he opted against knee surgery in early August 2022. This decision proved disastrous, as the "conservative therapy" he chose only postponed the necessary operation and recovery time.
While Coach Massimiliano Allegri publicly supported Pogba, his frustration was evident.
The fans, too, were far from pleased. By Christmas, Pogba had yet to make his 'second debut' for Juventus, yet he posted a picture of himself on a ski slope during the festive period. At best, it was poorly judged, a failure to grasp the situation. However, in the eyes of the fans, it conveyed a lack of respect, a recurring theme in Pogba's career.
