France: Paul Pogba, the 2018 FIFA World Cup-winning midfielder for France, has found himself embroiled in controversy after failing a doping test earlier this week. The test revealed the presence of testosterone, a hormone known to enhance an athlete’s stamina. Pogba’s professional career now hangs in the balance as he awaits the results of his backup B sample, which are expected to be disclosed before the week’s end.
The Juventus midfielder’s situation has raised questions and concerns, with French football team manager Didier Deschamps and fellow international Kingsley Coman voicing their unwavering support for their teammate.
Deschamps, who has known and worked with Pogba since 2012, expressed disbelief at the allegations, stating, “I can’t imagine that, knowing him, with everything that is in his head. I still remember certain discussions with him on the vaccine and COVID. The substance is there, but unless there is a second opinion, I don’t think he himself knows why, unfortunately. It’s hard for him. I have always supported him.”
Kingsley Coman echoed Deschamps’ sentiments, asserting, “We all support Paul; he’s a very close friend; he’s part of the family. We don’t really know more; we’ll have to look. But we know Paul; we know that if something happened, it was surely unconsciously and without intention. We are with him wholeheartedly.”
Paul Pogba, once regarded as one of the world’s top midfielders, has been provisionally suspended by the Italian anti-doping authority following the positive testosterone test. The outcome of the B-sample analysis will determine his fate, but if found guilty, Pogba could face a ban of up to four years.”
Pogba’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, emphasised their stance, saying, “We are waiting for the results of the counter-analysis and cannot say anything until then. The only certain thing is that Paul Pogba never intended to break the rules.”
Pogba’s return to Serie A with Juventus last year has not lived up to expectations due to a series of injuries and fitness setbacks. He featured in just 12 matches during his second stint with the Italian club, missing out on representing France at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Persistent knee and hamstring injuries limited his competitive game time last season.
As the 30-year-old midfielder awaits his fate, he has yet to make a competitive start this season, making two substitute appearances in the current campaign. His last appearance for Juventus was during their 2-0 Serie A victory against Empoli earlier this month.
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