Shocking Revelation: Paul Pogba Opens Up About Anti-Doping Controversy at Juventus
Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba faces provisional suspension for an anti-doping offence, potentially leading to a four-year ban The Frenchman returned to Juve last summer, making eight appearances in Serie A Pogba reveals his near exit from football due to an alleged blackmail plot, highlighting his 15-month struggle
Paul Pogba's representative has informed We News that he did not have any intention to violate the rules following the provisional suspension of the Juventus midfielder for an anti-doping offense. Italy's national anti-doping tribunal has suspended Pogba after an adverse sample was detected.
Following a random drugs test conducted after Juventus' Serie A game against Udinese on August 20, where Paul Pogba served as an unused substitute, the French international was found to have tested positive for testosterone. Testosterone is a hormone known to enhance athletes' endurance. The Italian anti-doping body released a statement on Monday evening, announcing Pogba's suspension. In response, Juventus stated that they would now assess and plan their next course of action.
Pending a trial and testing of a backup "B" sample, he faces the possibility of a suspension lasting up to four years. In a statement provided to We News by Pogba's representative, Rafaela Pimenta, it was stated that no comments can be made until the counter analysis is completed.
"The certain thing is that Paul Pogba never wanted to break the rules."
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If found guilty of doping, Pogba could face a suspension of between two and four years
The player's continuous struggle with injuries has been exacerbated by the latest negative news, adding to his woes since he rejoined Juventus from Manchester United over a year ago. He was unable to participate in France's journey to the World Cup final last year as a result of a knee injury, and his appearances for Juventus in the previous season were limited to just six Serie A matches.
Pogba has not started a single game this season, only making two appearances as a substitute. His most recent participation was in the 2-0 victory against Empoli. Additionally, authorities in France are currently conducting a police investigation into accusations of extortion involving Pogba, with his older brother Mathias denying any involvement in the alleged wrongdoing.
Pogba: I almost quit football over alleged blackmail plot
Moreover, it is another setback for Juventus who have had a turbulent season with investigations into fraudulent accounting practices and the improper reporting of wage payments. Consequently, these legal proceedings led to UEFA banning the Turin-based club from participating in European competitions this year.Pogba: I almost quit football over alleged blackmail plot
Earlier today, Pogba revealed that he had contemplated leaving the world of football after allegedly being extorted by an organized criminal syndicate.Mathias, the brother of the 30-year-old midfielder, was apprehended in September 2022 under suspicion of participating in the purported conspiracy. Paul, the midfielder, asserted that the scheme aimed to extort £11.1m from him. However, Mathias was subsequently freed in December and refutes the accusations.
Paul Pogba reported the incident to Turin prosecutors in July of the previous year, soon after departing Manchester United and returning to Juventus on a free transfer.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Paul Pogba expressed, "One must exercise caution where money is involved. It has the power to alter individuals, tear families apart, and ignite conflicts."
At times, I found myself pondering, "I no longer desire wealth. I simply yearn to cease playing this game and connect with regular individuals who will appreciate me for who I am, not for my fame or fortune."
Occasionally, it can be arduous. Nevertheless, I believe that enduring this life's challenges will only serve to fortify me.
Pogba's 15-month struggle
On June 1, 2022, Manchester United made the announcement that Pogba would be departing from Old Trafford for the second time when his contract expired.July 2022 - He reports a blackmail plot to Turin prosecutors, accusing someone of trying to extort £11.1m from him.
July 11, 2022 - He rejoins Juventus for a second time, securing a four-year contract in Turin.
July 26, 2022 - Suffers injury to meniscus that keeps him out for two months.
November, 2022 - Surgery to knee injury rules midfielder out of France's World Cup campaign in Qatar.
February 28, 2023 - He finally reemerges for Juve, marking his second appearance, contributing to a triumphant 4-2 victory over Torino.
March 9, 2023 - As a consequence of his tardiness to a team dinner, Massimiliano Allegri excludes him from the Europa League match against Freiburg.
March 13, 2023 - Incurs muscle injury during training, resulting in a one-month absence from playing.
May 14, 2023 - Receives opportunity to make first league start against Cremonese; however, is forced to leave the game after only 23 minutes due to injury. Subsequent diagnosis reveals a left thigh lesion, consequently concluding his season.
August 27, 2023 - Makes first appearance of the season as second half substitute in 1-1 draw against Bologna.
September 11, 2023 - Provisionally suspended from football for anti-doping offence.
