Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba confirms positive drugs test; faces potential 2-4 year ban

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has had his failed drug test confirmed as his B sample also tested positive. Pogba was provisionally suspended last month after his initial sample showed elevated levels of testosterone in his system.

The France international underwent random testing after Juventus secured a 3-0 victory against Udinese on August 20, a match where Pogba had remained on the bench as an unused substitute.

If found guilty of doping, Pogba could potentially face a ban ranging from two to four years.


Nado Italia, the Italian anti-doping agency alleged in September that Pogba had violated anti-doping rules due to the presence of "non-endogenous testosterone metabolites," with results indicating an "exogenous origin of the target compounds." Testosterone is a hormone known to enhance athletes' endurance.

Pogba's agent, Rafaela Pimenta told BBC, "What is certain is that Paul Pogba never wanted to break a rule."

Juventus reacquired Paul Pogba in July 2022 on a four-year deal after the midfielder allowed his contract with Manchester United to expire, making him a free agent. However, Pogba's return to Turin has been plagued by ongoing injury troubles, which also resulted in his absence from last year's World Cup in Qatar.

In the current season, Pogba has seen limited playing time, amounting to just 51 minutes as a substitute in matches against Bologna and Empoli. During the previous season, he managed to accumulate a total of 162 minutes of play across various competitions, with no goals to his name. These minutes were spread over six Serie A games, three brief appearances in the Europa League, and 11 minutes in the Coppa Italia, reflecting his struggles with injuries.

Recently, Pogba's injury woes resurfaced as he picked up a minor back problem following his appearance against Empoli, as confirmed by Juventus boss Massimo Allegri.

The French midfielder's return to Juventus, although highly anticipated, has yet to see him regain his full form and fitness due to recurring injuries. His struggles have raised concerns among fans and management about his ability to consistently contribute to the team's performance in the long run.