Footballer Paul Pogba is appealing a four-year suspension for doping that he received after testing positive for a banned substance, DHEA, which is known to increase testosterone levels.
This test came after his game on 20 August last year against Udinese.
The substance in question was part of a prescription given to Pogba by a doctor in the United States. After blood tests showed Pogba had some deficiencies, he was advised to take these supplements, the Daily Mail reported.
The medical recommendation for these supplements is a major factor in his appeal against the ban.
Pogba, 30, shared his plan to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The length of the ban, the strictest penalty by Italy’s anti-doping court, has been a source of conflict.
Joao Pedro, a Brazilian footballer, had his four-year suspension for a positive test reduced to six months after he claimed to have unknowingly taken the same supplements.
Pogba, who has claimed his innocence from the beginning, said he was unaware of how the substance entered his system and denied wanting a sporting advantage by using banned substances.
Juventus, Pogba’s club, has not commented on the matter.
The player’s future with Juventus is uncertain, as the club is considering terminating his contract. Pogba’s legal team previously declined a plea deal, hoping for a reduced sentence.
Pogba, who has been limited to one Serie A start since joining Juventus in 2022 due to injuries and suspension, is now focusing on his appeal in hopes of resuming his career.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Paul Pogba.
Image source: X
