Paul Pogba was never due to play in cancelled Kings Cup despite promoting event as ex-Juventus star's doping ban ticks down

The 31-year-old has not played since September 2023 due to a doping ban, which was reduced from four years to 18 months on appeal. Although he cannot play competitive football until March 2025, the Frenchman appeared in advertising for the Kings Cup exhibition match in Dubai with legends of the game on November 30. However, the event was rescheduled to February 2025 at very late notice due to "unforeseen circumstances" - something that fans weren't happy about.

kingscup.dxb wrote on Instagram: "Dear Football Fans, We regret to inform you that the King’s Cup Dubai has been rescheduled to February 2025 due to unforeseen circumstances. For refunds, please visit the Platinumlist website and follow the instructions for your ticket. We will announce the specific dates for the rescheduled event soon, so please stay tuned for updates. Thank you for your understanding and support."

In the comment section, jaankiamirapadania wrote: "Dude I literally have been counting days to see pogba????? WHY?"

dushyantnagpal commented: "This is heartbreaking. I booked VVIP for my son and he has been counting days. Brooo I literally book the tickets I was sooo happy."

diana_bernal90 added: "That is not FAIR AT ALL😢😢 my son will be very sad he was dreaming and couting days to meet Roberto Carlos…😢😢 and also i cannot find any refund link on website. Please inform."

However, GOAL understands Pogba was never actually going to play at the event, and was only due to watch on from the stands as he builds up his fitness in preparation for a return to competitive action in March.

The Frenchman is facing an uncertain future after his contract with Juventus was cancelled. The ex-Manchester United man will be able to begin training once again in January but it remains to be seen who will try and sign the midfielder, if anyone, in 2025.

Pogba, who is now a free agent, can join a team at any time. It may just be a matter of waiting and seeing for the 2018 World Cup winner.