The trial for six individuals accused of blackmailing footballer Paul Pogba is set to begin, bringing attention to the high-profile case involving the French star.
The trial of six people associated with football star Paul Pogba begins this Tuesday, November 26, at the Paris court. Among those accused is Mathias Pogba, the elder brother of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning team member. They all face charges related to an attempted extortion targeting the player in March 2022.
Paul Pogba stated that he was held hostage in a Paris-area apartment by armed individuals demanding €13 million for supposed protection they claimed to have provided since his career began. The group allegedly involved childhood friends and included Mathias Pogba, who is accused of playing a significant role in the incident.
Videos shared by Mathias Pogba on social media, in which he accuses his brother of not fulfilling family commitments, captured the investigators’ attention and reignited the case.
The trial, anticipated to span several weeks, reveals significant tensions within the footballer’s inner circle. While currently sidelined by an injury, Paul Pogba observes as his former confidants confront charges that could result in sentences of up to 20 years in prison.
Pogba tested positive for testosterone in August of the previous year, leading Italy’s anti-doping court to impose the maximum penalty on the Juventus midfielder.
However, CAS judges reduced Pogba’s ban after recognizing that there was no intent involved. They determined that his positive test resulted from unintentionally consuming a supplement prescribed by a medical doctor in Florida.
Pogba’s contract with Juventus was scheduled to end in June 2026.
“My journey with Juventus has concluded. It has been an honor to wear the Bianconeri jersey and create so many memorable moments together,” Pogba expressed in a statement.
“I hold dear the memories we created; they continue to endure. Throughout this past year’s challenges, your support has been vital. I wish to extend my gratitude to Juve fans worldwide for their kindness.”
In 2016, Pogba became the most expensive soccer player in history when he transferred from Juventus to Manchester United for a fee of 105 million euros ($113 million).
He played a key role in France’s World Cup victory in 2018 and rejoined Juventus as a free agent in 2022. However, injuries restricted him to only eight Serie A matches during his second stint with the club before he received a ban last year.
“I am excited about the next chapter of my career and can’t wait to step out on the pitch with my new club,” Pogba added.
