Paul Pogba 'handed lengthy ban' after failing anti-doping test
Paul Pogba has been handed a four-year ban following his failed drug test, according to reports in Italy.
Italian outlet Repubblica Sport claim Pogba has been banned for four years for doping violations.
Pogba, 30, was provisionally suspended back in September 2023 after his initial sample showed DHEA was found in his system which can raise levels of testosterone - a hormone that increases the endurance of athletes.
In October 2023, his failed drug test was confirmed after his B sample returned a positive result.
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The former Manchester United star was selected for random testing after Juventus' game against Udinese last August.
He was an unused substitute in Juve's 3-0 victory.
According to the report, "the prosecution did not believe the defense's version of accidental intake of the substance. Key point for Pogba's lawyers, who had rejected the plea deal."
It's suggested that this could spell the end of his illustrious career, with the Frenchman turning 31 next month.
Pogba, who won the World Cup with France in 2018, returned to Juve in the summer of 2022 following an underwhelming second spell at Man United.
He had returned to Old Trafford for £89 million back in August 2016.
Pogba made 226 appearances in all competitions, scoring 39 goals - helping his old side win the Carabao Cup and Europa League.
He's played a measly 12 games across two seasons for the Serie A outfit since returning to Turin.
Speaking before the verdict, Emmanuel Petit claimed Pogba should retire if he is hit with a four-year ban.
He told Betway (quotes via Goal): "Paul Pogba should definitely retire if he is given a four-year ban.
"When you are suspended for that long, you can't even come to the training ground.
"That leaves you going to the gym or the park with no team-mates, no balls, nothing. Four years for a 30-year-old player is a long time."
Topics: Paul Pogba, Football
Nasir Jabbar