Reliable sources have revealed that Juventus and France midfielder, Paul Pogba, has tested positive for the presence of testosterone in his ‘B’ sample, as confirmed by a close contact familiar with the case. Pogba, a former player for Manchester United and a World Cup winner in 2018, now faces a potential ban of up to four years.
The initial test conducted by the Italian anti-doping agency (Nado) had already indicated the presence of testosterone metabolites. The subsequent analysis of Pogba’s B sample, carried out recently, has yielded the same outcome. At present, the player’s representatives have chosen not to provide any comments on the matter.
According to the World Anti-Doping Code, Pogba may be subjected to a four-year suspension, which could be reduced by half if he can demonstrate his innocence. In certain circumstances, such as the substance usage occurring “out of competition” and not affecting his performance level, the ban may even be limited to a few months.
Last month, Pogba’s representatives stated that the detected testosterone resulted from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor he consulted in the United States. Testosterone is known to contribute to muscle development.
Despite attempts to seek confirmation from Nado regarding this information, they were unable to disclose any details due to a decision made by the Italian privacy authority.
Pogba now has seven days to present his defense to Italy’s National Anti-Doping Tribunal, responsible for investigating his case and determining a suitable sanction. This process may extend over several weeks. Additionally, the Turin public prosecutor’s office will open a judicial investigation since doping is considered a criminal offense in Italy.
Since the news of his positive test broke, Pogba has been unable to train with Juventus, the club he rejoined in July 2022 after a successful stint with Manchester United. Notably, this revelation coincided with Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri’s press conference ahead of the Turin derby against Torino, during which he expressed his regret for the situation.
Despite attempts to reach out to Juventus for comments, the club, which has also suspended payment of Pogba’s annual salary of 8 million euros (8.4 million dollars), has yet to respond.
Pogba commenced the current season with the intention of recovering from a series of injuries suffered the previous year, as well as undergoing summer surgery. The sample in question was reportedly obtained during his club’s opening match of the Serie A season, a victory against Udinese on August 20, where he remained an unused substitute.
Following the positive result from the initial sample on September 11, Pogba’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, emphasized her anticipation of the second sample’s results before forming an opinion. She also stressed that Pogba had never intended to breach any rules.
