01 March 2024 , 10:49
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Bruno Fernandes says he is “together” with Paul Pogba as the Frenchman attempts to fight a four-year doping ban.
It was announced on Thursday that the Frenchman’s playing career is all-but over after being hit with the ban. Pogba was initially suspended in September after testing positive for DHEA, a banned substance that boosts endogenous testosterone.
A secondary sample was then counter-analysed, which also returned a positive result. Pogba and his representatives have constantly maintained that the breach was not intentional.
The National Anti-Doping Tribunal did not agree with those pleas, and handed him the maximum penalty. Pogba took to Instagram with an emotional statement and he has been sent messages of support from a number of former Manchester United team-mates.
Current captain, Bruno Fernandes wrote: “Together bro,” while Harry Maguire said: “PP,” with a love heart emoji. Raphael Varane replied "force," with a love heart emoji while Jadon Sancho also sent a singular heart.
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The messages of support continued to come. Former Red Devil Luis Nani said: “You are strong brother keep fighting for your Futbol.”
Taking to Instagram after his ban was confirmed, Pogba revealed his disappointment, before confirming his intent to appeal the ban. He wrote: “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. 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.
Bruno Fernandes has sent Paul Pogba a message of support (Getty Images)Was Paul Pogba a success or a failure at Man United? Share your thoughts in the comments below
“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.”
His ban effectively means that Pogba’s second spell with Juventus will now come to an end. He is under contract until the summer of 2026, and will not be eligible to take to the pitch before then.
Pogba’s second stint with the Italian giants has been a disaster. He rejoined the side on a free transfer from Man United but saw his first season ruined by injury.
The midfielder had only made two Serie A appearances this term before being suspended. Man United had previously made him the most expensive signing in British football with a £89m move in 2016 but Pogba never quite hit the heights expected of him at Old Trafford.
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