Paul Pogba breaks silence on doping ban, vowing to return stronger than ever. Image: Juventus
(The Post News)- After months of silence, Paul Pogba, Juventus’ star midfielder, has finally spoken out about his suspension, revealing the emotional toll it has taken on his life. In August 2023, Pogba underwent a routine doping test after Juventus played Udinese, despite not participating in the game. The results showed traces of DHEA, a banned substance with testosterone-boosting properties.
Pogba’s ordeal began with a provisional suspension in September 2023, followed by a four-year ban from the Italian anti-doping tribunal. However, recent developments have seen this punishment reduced to 18 months, giving Pogba a lifeline to return by March 2025.
Anti-doping regulations aim to ensure accountability among all squad members, whether they play or not. Pogba, an unused substitute that day, was randomly selected for testing, which revealed the banned substance in his system.
In a recent interview, Pogba opened up about the suspension’s emotional impact. “I thought a lot about stopping, retiring… But I couldn’t let the people who want to see me fail win.” He admitted that football, something he built his life around, was suddenly taken from him.
Pogba attributed his strength during this challenging period to his family. “I want to see my kids grow, to be present in their lives. My family has been my strength through all of this.” This time away has given him a new perspective, reminding him of the value of moments with his children.
The CAS ruling acknowledged that Pogba’s DHEA ingestion was unintentional, resulting from a supplement prescribed by a doctor in Florida. Despite the setback, Pogba remains hopeful, determined to prove that this struggle will make him stronger.
Pogba’s contract with Juventus ends in 2026, and he’ll be 32 by the time he can return in March 2025. For an elite athlete already battling injuries, the path back to top-flight football won’t be easy.
“The truth will come out,” Pogba assured fans, gearing up for his legal battle and preparations for a long road back to the game. His focus is clear: getting back on the pitch as soon as possible, ideally with Juventus.
Pogba confirmed his desire to play for the French national team again, though his priority is rebuilding form and proving worth once his ban ends.
The CAS decision reflects leniency towards athletes demonstrating unintentional use of banned substances. Pogba maintains the positive test resulted from a prescribed supplement and remains focused on proving integrity through future performances.
For Pogba, the journey forward is about redemption. As he awaits his return, he’s determined to train, fight, and “come back stronger than ever.” Whether in Turin or elsewhere, Pogba aims to end this chapter on his terms.
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