Paul Pogba, one of the world’s best footballers, has reportedly tested positive for doping and could face a two-year ban.
Multiple Reports in Italy claim that the Juventus midfielder was found to have elevated levels of testosterone in a random drug test after the club’s opening Serie A match on August 20.
Neither Pogba, Juventus, nor the Italian Football Federation have commented on the reports, but if they are accurate, it would be a major blow for the player and his club.
Testosterone is a banned substance in sport because it can enhance athletic performance. A positive test for testosterone can result in a suspension of up to four years, but the length of the ban can be reduced if the athlete can prove that they did not take the substance intentionally.
Pogba is one of the most high-profile footballers in the world and has won numerous individual and team awards, including the World Cup with France in 2018. He is also one of Juventus’ most important players and is expected to play a key role in the club’s bid to win Serie A this season.
If Pogba is found guilty of doping, it would be a huge setback for his career and for Juventus. It would also be a major embarrassment for the Italian Football Federation, which is already under scrutiny for its handling of several other doping cases in recent years.
What Next for Pogba?
If the reports of Pogba’s positive doping test are accurate, he will now face a disciplinary hearing from the Italian Football Federation. At the hearing, he will have the opportunity to present his defence and explain why he tested positive for testosterone.
If the federation finds Pogba guilty of doping, he will be suspended from playing for up to four years. However, the length of the ban could be reduced if Pogba can prove that he did not take the substance intentionally.
Pogba is also likely to face a criminal investigation in Italy, as doping is a criminal offence in the country.
Impact on Juventus
If Pogba is suspended for doping, it will be a major blow for Juventus. The midfielder is one of the club’s most important players and is expected to play a key role in its bid to win Serie A this season.
In addition to the loss of Pogba’s on-field contributions, Juventus could also face financial sanctions from the Italian Football Federation. The club could also be fined or docked points in the Serie A table.
The news of Pogba’s alleged positive doping test is a major development in the world of football. If the reports are accurate, it could have a significant impact on the player’s career and on Juventus’ season.
It is important to note that Pogba has not yet been found guilty of doping. He will have the opportunity to present his defence to the Italian Football Federation and to explain why he tested positive for testosterone.
However, if he is found guilty, it could be a major setback for his career and for Juventus.