Pogba’s Lawyers Set To Aim for Two-Year Ban Instead of Four, in Doping Case (See Details)

In a potential career-altering development, Paul Pogba, the former Manchester United midfielder currently playing for Juventus, is facing a four-year ban for failing a drug test earlier this year.

The hearing, set to take place in January 2024, will see Pogba’s legal team attempting to reduce the ban to just two years.

Italian prosecutors recommended the four-year suspension after Pogba tested positive for the banned substance DHEA following a match against Udinese in August.

The substance, known for its natural testosterone-boosting properties, also showed up in the B-sample, triggering the mandatory ban according to world anti-doping rules.

Pogba’s entourage, as reported by Gazzetta dello Sport, is gearing up for a final hearing in early 2024, where they will seek a reduced sentence through a plea bargain.

The strategy revolves around demonstrating Pogba’s lack of intent to consume the banned substance during the proceedings scheduled for the second half of January.

Juventus, Pogba’s current club, has distanced itself from the matter, asserting that the player may have used the offending product without consulting the club doctors.

The ongoing investigation has prompted Juventus to contemplate Pogba’s future with the team, considering he would be 34 years old by the end of a potential four-year ban.

Reports suggest that Juventus will make a decision post the judge’s sentencing, with the outcome influencing the extent of Pogba’s disqualification.

If the ban is substantial, Juventus is reportedly willing to sever ties with Pogba, saving approximately £25 million (€30 million) in the process.