Reports indicate that Paul Pogba’s legal team aims to reduce a potential four-year ban to two years during a forthcoming hearing scheduled for January 2024.
Italian prosecutors proposed a four-year ban for Pogba following a failed drugs test earlier this year. The former Manchester United midfielder, now with Juventus, received a provisional suspension after testing positive for the banned substance DHEA post a match against Udinese on August 20.
Subsequently, Pogba’s B-sample also confirmed the presence of DHEA, a substance known to naturally boost testosterone production.
Awaiting the verdict, sources suggest Pogba’s representatives plan to contest the four-year ban, seeking a reduced term during a hearing anticipated in early 2024 through a potential plea bargain. Their strategy reportedly involves demonstrating a lack of intent in using the banned substance.
Juventus, distancing themselves from the matter, implied that the substance might have been consumed without consulting the club doctors.
The ongoing investigation has led Juventus to contemplate Pogba’s future with the team, especially considering his age—being 34 by the ban’s potential conclusion.
The outcome of the hearing will influence Juventus’ decision, with indications that a lengthy ban could prompt the club to sever ties with Pogba, saving approximately £25 million (€30 million).
