What is the most likely next club for Paul Pogba as 18-month ban ends?

In terms of competitive level and particularly emotional connection, Marseille is surely one of Pogba's most likely options. Marseille is a fierce competitor in Ligue 1, and as of March 25th, are second behind Paris Saint-Germain, proving their strength. 

The French side, managed by one of football's best young managers in Roberto de Zerbi, are likely to return to the Champions League in the 2025–26 season if they can maintain this momentum; this surely fits the objective Pogba expressed in a Twitch interview regarding his preference for a "club that plays in the Champions League." 

Marseille also presents a unique cultural fit: Pogba was born in Paris's outskirts but has never played in Ligue 1. Along with ending his career in his own nation, joining Marseille would let him experience the ardent devotion of French supporters.

The fervent enthusiasm of the Marseille supporters is well documented; hence, Pogba's recovery in form could greatly rely on their support.

Frank McCourt, the owner of Marseille, has long adored Pogba, thereby providing further opportunity for a move.

Pogba also has the potential of reuniting with former Manchester United teammate Mason Greenwood, who is now employed by Marseille.

Former colleague Adil Rami also publicly backs a potential Pogba's move to Marseille, believing that the game's atmosphere and speed suit him perfectly, thereby facilitating quick adaptation.

In a nutshell, Marseille can provide Pogba not only consistent playing time but also a platform for his comeback to the French national team. Ligue 1's lower level of competitiveness than the Premier League will especially help Pogba's recovery from his knee and hamstring injuries.

Should Pogba give financial stability and physical recuperation top priority, the Saudi Pro League is clearly a very appealing option. The two clubs in the division linked to Pogba, Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad, both have the capacity to offer him a competitive contract, thereby ensuring his financial stability during the final stages of his career.

The Saudi league has drawn several European stars in recent years, including elite players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Benzema; thus, Pogba's arrival would increase the league's international impact even more.

While Al-Nassr gives Pogba the opportunity to play alongside his old Manchester United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo again, Al-Ittihad will see him once more team up with Kanté. Not only can these familiar personalities enable Pogba to adjust to the new surroundings faster, but these narratives also bring greater thrill to the Saudi league.

Furthermore, the lesser intensity of the Saudi League would be very helpful for Pogba's physical rehabilitation. Following an 18-month ban and long-term injury problems, the Saudi league can give him a rather simple transition phase.

More importantly, Saudi Arabia's highly favourable living conditions let Pogba enjoy a luxurious lifestyle and amass more money for his future.

The main drawback regarding Paul Pogba moving to the Middle East over the top European leagues is the absence of Champions League football. Still, for a 32-year-old veteran, the Saudi league is clearly the best option to guarantee financial stability while extending his career.

Major League Soccer (MLS) would be a somewhat appealing option if Pogba wants to initiate a high-profile comeback at the conclusion of his career. MLS has drawn several European talents in recent years; hence, Pogba's arrival would surely help to further increase the league's profile.

The most likely destinations are Inter Miami, Los Angeles FC, and LA Galaxy, with Inter Miami the most directly linked to Pogba, having been seen meeting with David Beckham, one of Inter Miami's owners, last month.

Joining Inter Miami not only means Pogba will be playing with Messi, but it also lets him savour the opulent lifestyle Miami offers.

Los Angeles FC and LA Galaxy also provide special attractions for Pogba, as the former employs French national team players Lloris and Giroud, while the latter is well-known for its long-standing history with star players, having had Beckham and Ibrahimovic play here.

For Pogba's physical recuperation and conditional adaptation, the somewhat low intensity of MLS games and the rather low pressure will be quite beneficial. Besides, the MLS season stretches from March to October, which gives Pogba a slow comeback schedule.

For Pogba, MLS offers not only a competitive platform but also a fantastic chance to develop his commercial value and personal brand. The enormous possibilities of the American market will enable him to stay involved in the commercial and media spheres beyond retirement.

Like Saudi Arabia, MLS's disadvantage is that its competitive level cannot be matched to the best European leagues, particularly with regard to the lack of the Champions League platform.

Still, MLS gives Pogba the ideal mix: he can live a fantastic quality of life and be ready for the World Cup set for the United States in 2026.

Summary: Where is Pogba's next club?

Pogba's next destination will depend on his priorities in personal, financial, and competitive life. With its Champions League potential and fit with French culture, Marseille has the advantage in terms of competitive level and emotional connection; meanwhile, Saudi Arabia and MLS give Pogba a prominent chance to resume his career while enjoying a good standard of living. As one of the richest players in football, Pogba will have a second chance to pen a famous chapter at the end of his career and also safeguard his financial future regardless of the route he decides upon.