Paul Pogba paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo after picking up the Best Comeback Player of the Year award at the 2025 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.
The French midfielder’s career was put on hold in September 2023 after he tested positive for elevated testosterone levels while playing for Juventus, leading to a four-year ban. However, following a successful appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, his suspension was reduced to 18 months, allowing him to return to football after 811 days out.
‘The Nightmare Is Over’
Reacting to the ruling in October 2024, Pogba described the period as a “nightmare,” insisting he never knowingly violated anti-doping regulations.
“Finally, the nightmare is over. I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again,” Pogba said at the time, stressing that the substance came from a supplement prescribed by a doctor and did not enhance performance.
Return to Football and Award Win
The 32-year-old was cleared to resume training in January 2025 and later joined AS Monaco after Juventus terminated his contract. Since signing for the Ligue 1 side, Pogba has made three appearances and capped his comeback by winning the Comeback Player award in Dubai.
During his acceptance speech, Pogba thanked his family for their support through what he described as one of the toughest periods of his life, which also included a highly publicised blackmail case involving his brother, Mathias.
“It wasn’t easy,” Pogba said, according to Marca. “This award means a lot to me and my wife. We’ve been through so much together. My kids kept me smiling when things were hard.”
Pogba Hails Ronaldo’s Influence
Pogba also used the moment to praise Cristiano Ronaldo, his former Manchester United teammate, who was present at the ceremony. The two shared the pitch during the 2021–22 season before Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr.
“Cristiano, you are here. You’ve inspired all of us as a footballer,” Pogba said. “You did this for the next generation. Big thank you, Cristiano.”
Pogba has previously highlighted Ronaldo’s unmatched discipline, describing it as being “on another level.”
What’s Next for Pogba?
Looking ahead, Pogba will be hoping for increased game time with Monaco in 2026, with his next opportunity expected in a Ligue 1 clash against Lyon on January 3. While a return to top form remains uncertain, the midfielder has not ruled out ambitions of playing for France again, though a place in the 2026 World Cup squad appears a distant goal for now.
