Juventus midfielder, Paul Pogba, has been hit with a provisional suspension from football following an anti-doping violation. The Italian Anti-Doping Tribunal made this decision after tests conducted on August 20 revealed elevated levels of testosterone in Pogba’s system, shortly after Juventus’ triumphant 3-0 victory over Udinese.
In an official statement released today, Juventus Football Club confirmed the suspension order, stating, “Juventus Football Club announces that today, on September 11, 2023, the footballer Paul Labile Pogba received a precautionary suspension order from the National Anti-Doping Tribunal following the results of tests carried out on August 20, 2023. The club reserves the right to consider the next procedural steps.”
Nado Italia, the anti-doping agency, has wasted no time in taking action, immediately imposing the provisional suspension. Pending a full trial and further testing of a backup “B” sample, Pogba faces the grim prospect of a suspension that could extend up to four years.
This development adds to a series of setbacks for the talented midfielder, who has been grappling with injuries since his return to Juventus from Manchester United over a year ago. Pogba’s knee injury kept him out of France’s journey to the World Cup final last year, and he participated in only six Serie A matches for Juventus in the previous season. Notably, Pogba has yet to make a starting appearance this season, with just two substitute appearances, most recently in the 2-0 victory against Empoli.
Additionally, a police investigation has been ongoing in France, probing allegations of extortion targeting Paul Pogba, including accusations involving his older brother, Mathias, who vehemently denies any involvement in wrongdoing.
