Ex-New York Red Bulls star explains why Paul Pogba 'would rip up MLS' as World Cup winner urged to try and rebuild career in America after doping ban

Pogba is finally free to play football again after serving an 18-month doping ban, which was reduced on appeal. The midfielder is currently a free agent after he mutually terminated his contract with Juventus last November. Since becoming a free agent, the World Cup-winning French midfielder has been linked with a move to the MLS as well as the Saudi Pro League. He was also tipped to join Marseille, but the Ligue 1 club's president has ruled out the possibility of signing the player.

The 32-year-old is currently training in Miami to regain match fitness as he gears up to make a comeback to professional football. Ex-Chelsea and New York Red Bulls star Wright-Phillips has urged the Frenchman to sign for an MLS club as he feels that America is the perfect place for the midfielder to revive his career.

Speaking to Genting Casino, the 43-year-old said: "He would rip the MLS up because of his stature, and his technical ability. Just because of his quality, nothing to do with the MLS. It isn't it isn't an easy league. You’re running up and down, they don't stop. They can just run, and the temperature is a whole new ballgame as well, especially when you play in New Jersey Miami, in 80%, 90% humidity on top of the heat.

"It takes some time to get used to. As long as he's been keeping himself in good shape, which it looks like he has over this ban; he still looks the same in terms of trimness, he looks like he's been training hard. I think his ability is always going to have something to offer and you never know, he might come back. Pogba being out for that long has most probably made him realise how much he loves the game, and that hunger might be back to show people again."

Pogba has not played competitive football since September 2023, when he came on as a substitute in a Serie A clash for Juventus against Empoli before his ban was confirmed. He hopes to get back on the pitch soon by finding a new team.