Midfielder Paul Pogba could face a long suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug.
According to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Pogba tested positive for testosterone on August 20 after Juventus’ encounter with Udinese. This was the match in which the French player was not put on the field but he was still required to undergo random doping testing.
According to anti-doping regulations, each athlete will provide 2 urine samples (A and B) to the authorities. In Pogba’s case, the anti-doping agency will continue testing with sample B before making a final conclusion. However, the possibility of Pogba escaping sentence is not high.
There are many over-the-counter products sold in pharmacies that contain steroid hormones, which are used to increase muscle mass. However, traces of testosterone are also present in anti-inflammatory ointments and gels.
The Juventus midfielder is expected to be suspended as a precautionary measure and will have three days to request a re-analysis of the results.
If the positive result is confirmed, Pogba will be tried by the National Anti-Doping Court and the ban could be up to 2 years. Furthermore, the said ban can be extended to four years if the court proves that the doping allegation was intentional.
Since returning to Juventus in the summer of 2022, Pogba has continuously had bad luck. The French player only played 10 matches for the Serie A team last season due to injury.
Recently, Pogba said he considered retiring from his career because of accusations of blackmail and threats from an organized gang, including his brother Mathias.
