Former Manchester United star Paul Pogba will be able to return to Juventus training in just 12 weeks after his doping ban was significantly reduced by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), according to reports from Sunsports.
Pay Attention: Get the best tips from our Bet of the Day.
Pogba gets reduced ban
The midfielder was initially suspended for four years in February after testing positive for the banned substance DHEA. However, the CAS ruling has now cut his ban down to 18 months, allowing him to resume training with the Italian giants in January and play matches again in March, with his initial fine also being overturned.
Pogba had previously faced the possibility of retirement after the initial four-year ban was upheld earlier this year. He immediately appealed the decision and has now been cleared to return to the pitch.
The CAS ruling confirmed that Pogba inadvertently took DHEA, a substance that boosts testosterone. While DHEA is currently on WADA’s list of banned substances, the ruling states that it only has an effect on females.
The 31-year-old Frenchman has been sidelined since appearing off the bench against Empoli in September 2023, making just two appearances for Juventus before his ban came into effect. The initial suspension had seen him banned from playing until late 2027, by which time he would have been 34 years old.
Pogba rejoined Juventus from Manchester United on a free transfer in 2022, signing a four-year deal with the club. During his time in Turin, he has made 190 appearances and scored 34 goals, winning nine major trophies, including four Serie A titles.
Pogba expresses excitement to news
Upon receiving the news of his reduced ban, Pogba took to social media to express his relief and excitement. He posted a picture of himself in France football socks with a sandtimer emoji.
Juventus, however, may now consider selling Pogba given the possibility of an early return to the pitch. He has spent much of his suspension away from the club, and his reduced ban could open up opportunities for a transfer.
