Paul Pogba, former France international, has received a special request from the French national team ahead of their highly anticipated Euro 2024 match against Belgium. Despite currently serving a four-year ban from football due to a doping offence, Pogba remains a significant figure in French football.
Pogba’s Doping Suspension
Pogba’s suspension was imposed after dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a compound that promotes the production of hormones including testosterone, was found in his system. Pogba has denied knowingly taking any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations and is preparing for a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to appeal the ban.
Continued Ties with the National Team
Pogba, who played a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, remains close with France head coach Didier Deschamps. According to ESPN, Pogba has been invited to attend the match against Belgium in Dusseldorf, despite his ban. His former France teammate Blaise Matuidi has also been invited by the French FA to attend the game. Pogba will travel from his home in Turin, Italy, where he is still contracted with Juventus pending the outcome of his appeal.
Struggles for France and Belgium at Euro 2024
Both France and Belgium have faced challenges at Euro 2024, with neither team topping their group. France finished second in Group D behind Austria, while Belgium came second in Group E after Romania. This sets the stage for a crucial clash as both teams look to advance further in the tournament.
Controversy Surrounding Belgium
Belgium has faced additional scrutiny ahead of the match after their FA published a video featuring Amadou Onana singing an offensive chant about Kylian Mbappe. In the clip, Brussels-based comedian Pablo Andres asks, “Who will kick Mbappe on the shin?” before Onana chants his own name. Belgium’s press officer, Stefan Van Loock, issued a public apology to Mbappe, stating that the video was intended to be humorous but was misjudged and has since been taken offline.
Looking Ahead
As Pogba attends the match in support of his national team, the French squad will aim to overcome their struggles and secure a victory against Belgium. Both teams are under pressure to perform, and the presence of Pogba and Matuidi could provide a morale boost for the French side.