Paul Pogba lands new job amid 18-month doping ban as he sends nine-word message

Paul Pogba's ban from football has afforded him time to pursue a new career, making his acting debut in his native France in a film where he plays a youth team coach

Paul Pogba has ventured into acting while serving his doping ban.

The Frenchman, 31, was initially given a four-year suspension from football after testing positive for DHEA – a banned substance that raises testosterone levels - in August 2023. He denied any wrongdoing and appealed the verdict.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport reduced the ban to less than half the original length earlier this month, accepting Pogba's argument that he was unaware he'd taken the substance. That means he can return to the pitch in March.

But while he's been away, Pogba has made his acting debut. He stars as a youth team football coach in '4 Zeros' and attended the premiere at Pathe Palace in Paris last Tuesday with his wife Zulay.

Taking to Instagram to share pictures from the red carpet, he told his 62 million followers: "Super happy to appear in the movie 4 zero." It's set to be released in his home country next year.

While he's excited to add another string to his bow, Pogba's focus is on making his playing comeback in the new year. According to the BBC, he'll be able to resume training professionally in January.

He believes he's now been given a fair punishment, telling Sky Sports: "I'm not a cheater. I'm someone that loves my sport, I love the game and I would never, ever cheat. I like to win fairly. I'm a bad loser but I'm not a cheater.

"I take some responsibility because I took the supplement. I didn't triple-check, let's say it like that, even if it came from a professional. If I have to be punished, I am fine with it, but it should never be four years."

Pogba remains under contract at Juventus, where he's tied down until June 2026. However, club director Cristiano Giuntoli has insisted he doesn't have a future with them.

As quoted by DAZN, Giuntoli said: "Our position is clear. Pogba has been a great player, [but] he has been out for a long time and last year, we were forced to invest in other players. So now the squad is complete as it is."

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