Sports
Paul Pogba Sets Football Return In 6 Months
World-class midfielder Paul Pogba has successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to have his initial 48-month ban from football reduced to 18 months.
The reduction of the ban marks a significant victory for Paul Pogba who had faced a potential end to his career due to doping allegations.
Pogba, who was suspended in February 2024 after testing positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) following Juventus’ victory over Udinese in August 2023, is now expected to resume training by January 2025 and begin playing again by March after the ban elapses.
The controversy began when a post-match test detected elevated levels of testosterone, a hormone known to enhance athletic performance. Despite Pogba’s insistence that he had never knowingly taken a banned substance, investigations found him guilty of substance usage, leading to the original four-year ban from all football-related activities.
During the appeal process, Pogba admitted the ordeal had brought his football career to a standstill, with many speculating his playing days were over. However, in a statement following his successful appeal, Pogba expressed relief and gratitude.
“Finally, the nightmare is over,” Pogba said. “I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again. I always stated that I never knowingly breached Anti-Doping regulations. I play with integrity and I want to thank the Court of Arbitration who heard my explanation. This has been a hugely distressing period in my life because everything I’ve worked so hard for has been put on hold. Thank you for all the love and support. I can’t wait to get back on the pitch!”
The decision to reduce the ban has sparked reactions across the football world, with fans and players alike offering support to the 2018 World Cup winner. Pogba’s return to football in 2025 will be eagerly anticipated by his supporters, and his journey through this challenging period has solidified his reputation as a player committed to his craft and his integrity.
The reduction of the ban is not just a victory for Paul Pogba, but also a hopeful chapter in his storied career, allowing him to continue pursuing his dreams on the pitch.
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