The Italian Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) delivered a significant blow to Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba on Thursday, suspending him from soccer for four years following a failed drug test, according to Bleacher Report.

The suspension comes after Pogba's initial failure on August 20 against Udinese, leading to a provisional suspension.

His B sample confirmed the positive result from his A sample, indicating elevated levels of testosterone not naturally produced by his body.

Paul Pogba, currently in his second season at Juventus with a contract extending through 2026, can appeal the decision.

FIFA's guidelines for anti-doping violations stipulate suspensions ranging from two to four years, contingent on proving intentional rule violations, per The Athletic.

Pogba, expressing his disbelief, sadness, and shock, issued a statement refuting any deliberate violation of anti-doping regulations.

"I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping's decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect," Pogba said in a statement.

"I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me. When I am free of legal restrictions the full story will become clear, but I have never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations," Pogba added.

Paul Pogba's Response and Appeal

In his statement, Pogba declared the verdict incorrect and asserted his commitment to revealing the full story when free of legal restrictions.

Denying any intentional use of banned substances, he emphasized his dedication to fair play and respect for fellow athletes and supporters.

Pogba announced his intention to appeal the decision before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The suspension, dating back to the positive test, has prevented Pogba from participating in soccer.

If the ban stands, it could potentially mark the end of the 30-year-old's illustrious career at the highest levels of the sport, with a return only possible at the age of 34 following the completion of the suspension, Yahoo! Sports noted.

Pogba's Soccer Journey and Tumultuous Return to Manchester United

Paul Pogba's soccer journey has been marked by both highs and lows.

Joining Manchester United's academy in 2009, he made his first-team debut in the 2011-12 season.

A move to Juventus followed, where he played until the 2015-16 season.

Manchester United brought him back in 2016 for a then-world record fee, but his second stint at Old Trafford proved turbulent.

Despite individual success, including a career-high 16 goals in the 2018-19 season, Pogba's relationship with the club soured, leading to his departure in 2022.

Rejoining Juventus in 2022, Pogba's return was marred by a knee injury, causing him to miss the 2022 World Cup.

His appearances have been limited to just eight games in his second stint with the Italian giant.

The recent suspension now casts uncertainty over the remainder of Pogba's soccer career, pending the outcome of his appeal.

Paul Pogba's suspension is not only a setback for the accomplished midfielder but also a noteworthy event in the world of soccer, prompting questions about anti-doping measures and their implications for the careers of high-profile athletes.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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