French Star “Shocked” by Suspension for Banned Substance

French midfielder Paul Pogba expressed shock and disbelief after being handed a four-year ban from soccer for testing positive for a banned substance. The Juventus star vowed to appeal the suspension, maintaining his innocence and promising to reveal the full story when legally able.

Pogba was provisionally banned last September after a positive test for testosterone following Juventus’ 3-0 win over Udinese. On Thursday, Italy’s National Anti-Doping Tribunal formalized the four-year suspension.

In an emotional Instagram post, Pogba said the verdict was “incorrect” and that he would “never knowingly or deliberately” take any prohibited performance-enhancing substances.

Career Threatened by Suspension

The 29-year-old stressed that he has “never disrespected or cheated” fellow players or fans during his career. If the ban is upheld, it could spell the end of Pogba’s playing days at the highest level.

Pogba rejoined Juventus last summer on a free transfer from Manchester United. He was a key part of France’s World Cup-winning squad in 2018 but missed last year’s tournament due to injury. The suspension now puts his hopes of playing at the 2026 World Cup in jeopardy.

Appeal Coming as Pogba Promises Full Disclosure

The former United star said that “when I am free of legal restrictions, the full story will become clear.” He will bring his case before the Court of Arbitration for Sport in a bid to overturn the suspension.

Pogba said he remains “heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away.” For now, one of soccer’s most recognizable stars remains sidelined indefinitely as he fights to salvage his career and reputation.