‘I Was a Christian Until...’ — Paul Pogba’s Wife Reveals She Converted to Islam After Marriage to World Cup Winner

Zulay Pogba, the wife of French footballer Paul Pogba, has opened up about her personal journey of faith. The Bolivian-born interior designer and mother of three shared that she converted to Islam seven years ago, having previously identified as a Christian.

Her candid disclosures have sparked widespread interest, shedding light on the intimate aspects of her life with the World Cup-winning midfielder.

Zulay, who boasts more than 1.3 million followers on Instagram, used the platform to engage directly with her fans, answering queries about her background, family, and spiritual beliefs ahead of the Ramadan season.

Zulay’s conversion story is deeply intertwined with her marriage to Paul, who is a practising Muslim. She explained that after tying the knot, she began exploring Islam more thoroughly.

In a revealing Q&A on her Instagram Stories on Monday, February 9, the 32-year-old shared:

“I converted to Islam 7 years ago, I was a Christian before. After Paul and I got married, l started reading and learning about the religion. I decided to convert after my first son was born," she said in response to a follower's question.

The revelation highlights the transformative power of personal relationships and family life.

Zulay, originally from Bolivia and raised in a Christian household, described her shift in faith as a deliberate and informed choice. Such conversions are not uncommon in interfaith marriages, where partners often seek common ground in spiritual matters to foster unity within the family.

Paul Pogba himself has been vocal about his Islamic faith in the past, crediting it for providing guidance amid the pressures of professional football. He has spoken about performing Umrah pilgrimages and observing Ramadan.

This is not the first time a partner of a high-profile footballer has changed their religion during or due to a relationship.

Pulse Sports previously reported on Jordan Ozuna's conversion to Islam during her relationship with Karim Benzema, with whom she shares a son.

Ozuna officially announced her conversion to Islam in late June and early July 2023. In an extensive interview with ELLE Spain, she revealed that the conversion ceremony took place at a mosque in Madrid. 

Ozuna described the experience as deeply emotional, stating she "cried like a little girl" while the Quran was being recited. She noted that while she performed extensive research on the religion herself, the decision was a significant "proof of love" following her move to Saudi Arabia with Benzema and the birth of their son.

As the Islamic holy month of Ramadan approaches, Zulay expressed enthusiasm about her preparations, viewing it as an opportunity for spiritual growth.

“I am already preparing, calling it the perfect time to strengthen my connection with Allah,” she shared. Emphasising the essence of sincere devotion, she added, “Allah knows your heart, and that’s what matters most.”

Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide, involves fasting from dawn until sunset, increased prayer, and acts of charity.

Zulay’s Q&A session extended beyond faith, touching on her professional endeavours and family routines. As an interior designer, she often shares glimpses of her work on Instagram, blending aesthetics with personal snippets of her life.

The couple, who split their time between homes in Europe and the Middle East, have faced challenges, including Paul’s doping ban from football. Amid such trials, Zulay’s emphasis on faith suggests it serves as a pillar of strength for their family

Paul Pogba, currently at A.S Monaco gained prominence during his stints at Manchester United and Juventus. He won the FIFA World Cup with France in 2018, cementing his status as one of football’s elite.

The couple’s relationship, which began in 2017, culminated in marriage two years later, and they now share three young sons: Labile Shakur, Keyaan Zaahid, and their youngest, born in 2023.