Paul Pogba’s Shocking Response Ignites Manchester City Transfer Saga
At 03:04 PM +07 on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, the football world was stunned by a bold move from Manchester City that has thrust Paul Pogba back into the spotlight. The Premier League giants have tabled an extraordinary contract offer for the French midfielder, promising an unprecedented salary and a suite of privileges that would mark a historic milestone for the club. This unexpected proposal, personally championed by Manchester City’s chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, aims to lure Pogba back to English football following his controversial departure from Juventus in 2023. However, the former Manchester United star’s shocking reaction has turned the situation into a full-blown transfer drama.

The offer is said to include a weekly wage exceeding £500,000, dwarfing previous club records, along with perks such as a tailored role in the squad, a personal training regime, and significant commercial opportunities. This comes at a time when Manchester City seeks to bolster their midfield following Rodri’s injury concerns, viewing Pogba’s versatility and experience as a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola’s system. The chairman’s direct involvement underscores the club’s determination, with sources suggesting the move is part of a broader strategy to dominate the 2025-2026 season. Pogba, who has been a free agent since leaving Juventus amid doping allegations (later overturned), represents a high-risk, high-reward acquisition.

Yet, the tension escalated when Pogba’s response leaked to the media. Reports indicate he rejected the offer outright, reportedly telling City representatives, “I’m done with England, find someone else.” This blunt nine-word dismissal has left fans and analysts reeling, given the financial and professional incentives on the table. Pogba’s reluctance is believed to stem from his tumultuous six-year stint at Manchester United, where he won the Europa League and FA Cup but faced criticism for inconsistency. His return to Manchester, even with a rival club, appears to be a step he is unwilling to take, preferring instead to explore opportunities in leagues like Saudi Arabia or Major League Soccer.

The fallout has been immediate. Manchester City’s hierarchy is reportedly frustrated, with some insiders suggesting the rejection could strain relations with other potential targets wary of the club’s aggressive approach. Fans on social media have been divided, with some applauding Pogba’s independence and others questioning his decision to snub such a lucrative deal. The situation has also reignited debates about Pogba’s career trajectory, with pundits speculating whether his prime years are behind him or if he can still reclaim his 2018 World Cup-winning form.
For Manchester City, the rejection poses a challenge as they scramble to reinforce their squad before the transfer window closes. Alternatives like Joshua Kimmich or Eduardo Camavinga are now under consideration, but Pogba’s name had been the centerpiece of their plans. Meanwhile, Pogba’s next move remains uncertain, with his agent hinting at “exciting discussions” elsewhere. As the football world watches, this saga highlights the unpredictable nature of the transfer market and the personal stakes involved for players like Pogba.
The coming weeks will reveal whether City can recover from this setback or if Pogba’s decision marks the end of his Premier League chapter.