Mathias Pogba Sentenced to Three Years in Extortion Case Involving His Brother Paul Pogba

Mathias Pogba has been sentenced to three years, with two years suspended, in an extortion case involving his brother, former football star Paul Pogba. Amidst significant punishments for other defendants, Paul Pogba reflects on the emotional toll of the ordeal.

Mathias Pogba, the elder brother of former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, has been handed a three-year sentence, with two years suspended, after his conviction for attempting to extort his brother. Mathias will evade jail time, instead serving one year under electronic surveillance, along with a fine of €20,000 (£16,500).

In a Paris court, five co-defendants were found guilty of crimes including extortion, receiving sentences ranging from four to eight years. The case revolves around a shocking incident in 2022, where Paul Pogba alleged that he was held at gunpoint by individuals he referred to as childhood friends, who demanded €13 million (£10.8 million). Paul reported initially paying €100,000 (£82,600) to these individuals to avoid escalation.

Mathias Pogba’s attorney, Mbeko Tabula, expressed dissatisfaction with the court's ruling, labeling the sentence as "extremely harsh" and indicating plans to appeal. The sentences for the five other defendants include eight years for Roushdane K, four years with two suspended for Boubacar C, five years for both Adama C and Mamadou M (with varying suspended terms), and four years with three suspended for Machikour K.

Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Paul Pogba admitted last year to contemplating retirement from football due to the immense pressure from the extortion attempt. He pointed out the drastic changes money can bring, stating, "Money changes people. It can break up a family. It can create a war." The case has profoundly affected the family dynamics, casting a long shadow over Paul Pogba's career amidst ongoing discussions about the challenges athletes face with financial pressures.