By : Lloyd Mahachi
Paul Pogba’s career has just been given a massive lifeline, reviving hopes of a glorious comeback! The 31-year-old French midfielder’s four-year ban from football for doping violations has been dramatically reduced to 18 months after a successful appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). This stunning reversal has sent shockwaves throughout the football world.
Pogba, a pivotal figure in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, tested positive for testosterone metabolites in August 2023, sparking a lengthy ban that threatened to derail his illustrious career. However, he vehemently denied any wrongdoing, insisting he would “never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations.” Pogba’s unwavering commitment to clearing his name has finally paid off.
Italy’s anti-doping agency pushed for the maximum four-year ban, citing the severity of the offense. However, Pogba’s appeal highlighted mitigating circumstances, leading CAS to reduce the sentence. The verdict means he can resume playing for Juventus from March 2025, potentially reviving his career and quashing retirement rumors that had begun to circulate.
Pogba’s tumultuous journey began with a successful stint at Juventus, where he won four consecutive Serie A titles between 2012 and 2016. His impressive performances earned him the Golden Boy award in 2013. His return to Manchester United in 2016 yielded only two trophies, the Europa League and Carabao Cup in 2016/17. However, injuries and his doping ban threatened to derail his career, sparking concerns about his ability to regain top form.
Now, with the reduced ban, Pogba may feature for Juventus again before the 2024/25 season concludes. This could be the comeback story of the year, with Pogba poised to prove his doubters wrong. Football fans worldwide will be watching with bated breath as he seeks to reclaim his spot among the sport’s elite.
As Pogba prepares for his return, speculation surrounds his potential impact on Juventus’s title chances. Can he lead the team to another Serie A victory? Will he regain his spot in the French national team? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain Paul Pogba’s redemption arc has just taken a dramatic turn.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
