Paul Pogba, expressing profound dismay, has elected to address the public following the confirmation of a four-year suspension for doping on Thursday. In his official statement, disseminated through his verified Instagram account, Pogba unequivocally disavowed any intent to augment his athletic capabilities through prohibited means, asserting, “I would never do anything to enhance my performance.” Moreover, he announced his intention to contest the verdict by initiating an appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
“I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping’s decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect,” he said.
“I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.
“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.
“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.”
Paul Pogba faced a doping infraction on August 20, 2023, subsequent to an away fixture in Serie A against Udinese, during which he remained benched throughout the entirety of the match.
The substance DHEA, known for its potential to elevate testosterone levels, was detected in Pogba’s system, with a subsequent confirmatory positive test from a second sample in October.
Following the provisional suspension imposed by the anti-doping prosecutor in September 2023, Pogba was consequently suspended by Juventus as well. Consequently, he has refrained from participating in team training sessions for a duration of five months, receiving a monthly stipend of €2,400, the minimum compensation mandated by the collective agreement between clubs and the Footballers’ Association for a player suspended due to doping allegations.
While Juventus possesses the authority to initiate termination proceedings of Pogba’s contract, the club intends to engage in discussions with the player’s representatives before making a final determination, potentially deferring any decision until June.
It is not anticipated that the Serie A powerhouse will issue a formal statement regarding this matter today.