Paul Pogba faces a four-year ban from football following a doping violation earlier this season.
The French midfielder tested positive for testosterone after Juventus’ match against Udinese in August, leading to a provisional suspension by the club.
Despite Pogba’s claims of accidental ingestion and rejection of a plea deal, the prosecution upheld the ban.
Pogba has since released a statement on his official Instagram page, declaring he was “shocked and heartbroken” by the news.
“I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me,” he said.
“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.”
“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,” Pogba added.
This setback adds to Pogba’s struggles during his second stint with Juventus, marked by injuries since his departure from Manchester United in 2022.
Despite being one of football’s highest earners, injuries have limited his playing time, including missing the 2022 World Cup due to surgery.
According to a source, Juve are currently paying Pogba a minimum wage of 2,000 euros ($2,169.80) per month.
