French footballer Paul Pogba has opened up about the emotional toll of his recent doping ban, revealing that only one person truly stood by him when the world turned its back — his wife, Maria Zulay Salaues.
In a candid interview with Daily Mail Sports, Pogba admitted that calls stopped coming in and people began to avoid him once his football career took a hit.
The World Cup winner was banned from football after testing positive for a banned substance, a development that quickly altered his public image and professional standing.
“Everyone abandoned me,” Pogba revealed. “People I thought were close just disappeared when things got bad.”
Despite the personal and professional fallout, his wife Maria remained unshaken. Pogba shared that even Maria lost friends due to his scandal, but continued to remain strong, taking care of their children and keeping the family grounded.
“She stood by me, remained strong, and took care of our children. I owe her everything,” Pogba said, praising her unwavering loyalty.
The Juventus star, who is currently appealing the four-year ban, says the experience has given him a new perspective on life and relationships.
“This whole thing has taught me who’s real and who isn’t,” he added.
