After being suspended for four years for doping by the National Court Anti-doping from Italythe midfielder Paul Pogbayes Juventus it’s yes french national teamspoke out.
In an official statement, the star said he was “sad” and “shocked” by the body’s decision and guaranteed his innocence.
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“I can say that I have never consciously and deliberately taken any type of supplement that violates the rules anti-doping“, he assured.
Pogba also confirmed that he will appeal to the CAS (Court of Arbitration for Sport), in Switzerland, as a ESPN had anticipated.
The Frenchman had tested positive for synthetic testosterone after a test carried out on August 20, 2023.
On that occasion, the athlete did not go to the field in the duel between Udinese and Juventus, but was drawn for the exam anti-doping. Pogba was suspended in September and had the retest carried out and confirmed in October.
The tendency is for the “Old Lady” to terminate the contract with Pogba, says the Italian media, because of the case.
The contract between the parties lasts until June 2026.
Pogba during the game between Juventus and Empoli, during the Italian Championship Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Read Paul Pogba’s statement
I was informed this Thursday (29) about the decision of the Italian National Anti-Doping Court and I believe that the verdict is incorrect.
I am saddened, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.
When I am free from all legal restrictions, the whole story will be clear. However, I can say that I have never knowingly and deliberately taken any type of supplement that violates anti-doping rules.
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As a professional athlete, I would never do anything that would improve my performance using banned substances. I have never disrespected or cheated against my professional colleagues and fans of any team I played for or against.
As a consequence of the decision announced this Thursday, I also announce that I will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.