29 February 2024 , 22:47
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Paul Pogba tested positive for DHEA - a banned substance that boosts testosterone - which has resulted in a four-year ban for the Juventus midfielder.
The Frenchman has vowed to fight the ban, which will currently rule him out of the World Cup in 2026 in America. Pogba was tested in the opening game of this season against Udinese on August 20. His positive test comes due to a set of pills prescribed to Pogba by a US doctor, reports the Daily Mail.
The tablets were prescribed to the former United star, who cost the club £89million and then left on a free, at the end of November 2022. Pogba was instructed to take the tablets after blood tests revealed certain deficiencies in his body.
Pogba is understood to be frustrated by the length of the ban - which is the maximum penalty Italy's anti doping court can impose. The fact he was told to take the pills is set to form the crux of his defence with the player believing the punishment does not fit the crime.
The Frenchman said in a statement: "I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping’s decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect. I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.
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"When I am free of legal restrictions the full story will become clear, but I have never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations.
"As a professional athlete I would never do anything to enhance my performance by using banned substances and have never disrespected or cheated fellow athletes and supporters of any of the teams I have played for, or against. As a consequence of the decision announced today I will appeal this before the Court of Arbitration for Sport."
The Juventus star is facing four years out of the game (Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)Juventus have chosen not to comment on the situation with the player now on their books for a second time. He return in 2022 for nothing but has only played 12 times due to injury and suspension. Pogba's talent has long been hailed but several pundits have cited issues with his attitude and conduct.
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