A Paris court has sentenced Mathias Pogba, the brother of French international footballer Paul Pogba, to a three-year prison term, with two years suspended, after finding him guilty in a high-profile extortion case. The case, which has garnered widespread attention, revealed the complex dynamics and troubling allegations involving the Pogba family.
Court’s Decision and Sentence
Mathias Pogba was convicted of attempting to extort €13 million ($13.5 million) from his younger brother, Paul Pogba, in 2022. In addition to his prison sentence, Mathias was fined €20,000. The court granted Mathias the option to serve his one-year active sentence with an electronic bracelet, sparing him time in a traditional prison.
The ruling also took into account the psychological and emotional pressure Mathias applied to Paul Pogba, his family, and business associates in an attempt to coerce the substantial payment.
Background of the Case
The case stemmed from accusations made by Paul Pogba, who alleged that his brother, Mathias, and other individuals attempted to extort millions of euros from him. Paul claimed that the threats and demands for payment began during a family gathering in 2022.
The situation escalated when Mathias, along with several accomplices, reportedly ambushed Paul Pogba in Paris. During the encounter, they allegedly demanded €13 million, citing payments for “protection services” dating back to Paul Pogba’s teenage years.
Paul Pogba, who has played for clubs like Manchester United and Juventus, reported the threats to the French authorities, sparking an investigation that led to the trial.
Legal Proceedings
The trial delved into the evidence, including testimony from Paul Pogba and others involved. It also explored the strained relationship between the Pogba brothers and the involvement of external parties in the extortion plot.
During the proceedings, Mathias Pogba denied the allegations, claiming he never intended to harm his brother. However, the court found the evidence sufficient to convict him, highlighting the seriousness of his actions.
The Fine and Electronic Monitoring
The €20,000 fine imposed on Mathias Pogba reflects the court’s acknowledgment of the financial and emotional impact of his actions. The option to serve the one-year active sentence with an electronic bracelet allows Mathias to avoid incarceration while being closely monitored by authorities.
Impact on the Pogba Family
The case has cast a shadow over the Pogba family, with the brothers’ relationship strained in the public eye. For Paul Pogba, the ordeal has added personal challenges to an already high-profile career in football.
The conviction and sentencing bring a conclusion to a case that has been both a personal and public scandal for one of football’s most well-known families.
Moving Forward
While Mathias Pogba’s sentencing marks the legal closure of the extortion case, its repercussions on family dynamics and public perception of the Pogba name remain to be seen. For Paul Pogba, the focus now shifts to rebuilding trust within his family and continuing his professional career.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and complexities that can accompany fame and wealth, even within close-knit family circles.
