Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has expressed profound dismay and disbelief after being slapped with a four-year ban from football following a doping violation.
The 30-year-old French international, who was provisionally suspended in September, has been grappling with the fallout of a positive test that revealed elevated levels of testosterone in his system.
In a statement issued in response to the verdict, Pogba articulated his shock and heartbreak, asserting, “Everything I have built in my professional career has been taken away from me.” The former Manchester United star affirmed his intention to contest the ban through an appeal process.
Pogba’s troubles commenced after a random drug test conducted following Juventus’ inaugural match of the season on August 20th uncovered the concerning testosterone levels. The confirmation of the positive test by Italy’s national anti-doping tribunal in October led to the imposition of the four-year suspension, effectively putting a halt to Pogba’s career until 2027.
Expressing his disagreement with the ruling, Pogba vehemently denied any intent to violate anti-doping regulations, stating, “I would never knowingly or deliberately dope.” He pledged to unveil the complete narrative once legal constraints are lifted.
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The ban casts a shadow over Pogba’s recent return to Juventus in 2022, following his departure from Manchester United. His reunion with the Italian giants, marked by a four-year deal, was marred by recurrent injury setbacks, which also caused him to miss the 2022 World Cup.
The controversy surrounding Pogba’s suspension revolves around the detection of prohibited non-endogenous testosterone metabolites in his system, substances not naturally produced by the body from testosterone. The anti-doping prosecutor’s office underscored that the results indicated an “exogenous origin” of the compounds.
Pogba’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, reiterated the player’s innocence, affirming, “What is certain is that Paul Pogba never wanted to break a rule.”
The setback deals a significant blow to Pogba’s illustrious career, which includes stints at Manchester United and Juventus, where he showcased his prowess on the pitch. However, with his future in limbo due to the ban, Pogba’s aspirations for a triumphant return to football face an uncertain trajectory.
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