Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-02-29 16:03:08
Paul Pogba, once regarded as one of the world’s top midfielders, is now facing a premature end to his career due to a ban imposed by Italy’s anti-doping court. The ban, which is for the maximum duration of four years, was handed down after Pogba tested positive for testosterone while playing for Juventus. Despite his intention to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the likelihood of a successful overturn is slim, given the lack of mitigating circumstances in Pogba’s case.
The positive test result was revealed in September following a match against Udinese, where Pogba, although not participating, was present on the bench. Despite the option to reach a plea bargain with Italy’s anti-doping agency, Pogba chose to contest the charges, leading to a trial in the country’s anti-doping court. While the details of the verdict have not been made public due to privacy laws, sources close to the case have confirmed the ban.
In response to the ruling, Pogba expressed disbelief and asserted his innocence, stating that he had never knowingly taken any banned substances. The process of appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport could potentially take up to a year before a final decision is reached.
Known for his versatility, physicality, and goal-scoring ability, Pogba has had stints at both Manchester United and Juventus. His return to Manchester United in 2016 came at a then world-record transfer fee, showcasing his value in the football world. However, injuries have plagued his recent tenure at Juventus, limiting his appearances and impacting his performance on the field.
Despite his successes, including winning the World Cup with France and playing a key role in Juventus’ midfield, Pogba’s career is now overshadowed by the doping scandal. His contract with Juventus, which was set to expire in 2026, may now face early termination as a result of the ban.
In addition to the doping controversy, Pogba has also been embroiled in a separate police investigation in France involving allegations of extortion. These challenges further tarnish his reputation and cast doubt on the future of his career in professional football.
As Pogba navigates through these legal and personal challenges, the football world watches with bated breath to see how his story unfolds. The impact of the doping scandal on his legacy and future prospects remains uncertain, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning the fate of a once-promising talent.
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