Paul Pogba handed career-threatening four-year ban in doping verdict

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has been handed a severe four-year ban from football.

The decision comes after the 30-year-old tested positive for testosterone following Juventus's season opener against Udinese last August. 

The hefty sentence was delivered by an anti-doping prosecutor's office in Italy, a move that could potentially mark the end of Pogba's time on the pitch.

"I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping's decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect," Pogba expressed, revealing his shock and dismay at the ruling. 

"I am sad, shocked, and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me," he further lamented.

Pogba, who has consistently maintained his innocence, emphasized his integrity and commitment to fair play. 

"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," he stated. 

The midfielder underscored his ethical stance, asserting, “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.”

The decision to appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport underscores Pogba's determination to clear his name and salvage his career. 

"As a consequence of the decision announced today, I will appeal this before the Court of Arbitration for Sport," he declared, indicating a forthcoming legal battle to overturn the ban.

Pogba's career has been marked by significant achievements and high-profile transfers. 

Juventus welcomed him back on a four-year deal in July 2022 after he departed Manchester United as a free agent.

His initial stint with the Italian giants, from 2012 to 2016, was highlighted by 178 appearances and 34 goals, before moving to United for a then-world record transfer fee of £89.3m.  

However, Pogba's recent years have been plagued by injuries, significantly limiting his playing time.

The 2018 World Cup winner's return to Turin was anticipated to be a revival of his illustrious career, but injury setbacks have continued to hinder his impact on the field.

Pogba has played a mere 51 minutes this season, with his contributions significantly reduced from his peak years. 

Last season, he managed 108 minutes over six Serie A games, along with sporadic appearances in the Europa League and Coppa Italia, totaling just 162 minutes without scoring.

With inputs from Pulse Sports