Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

6 minutes read. Updated 8:31AM GMT Tues, 29th October, 2024

Paul Pogba, the renowned Juventus midfielder, is resolutely focused on making a comeback to soccer following a suspension due to a doping violation. The 31-year-old Frenchman was handed a significant four-year ban by Italy’s National Anti-Doping Tribunal (NADO Italia) after testing positive for testosterone, a substance that can enhance athletic performance. The initial provisional suspension came in September 2023, shortly after Pogba did not play in Juventus’ 3-0 victory against Udinese.

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, Pogba expressed his determination to return to the field, stating, “People know me. When they saw it happened, they knew it was not on purpose. This is totally the truth. I am an honest person.” His comments aim to clarify his stance and dispel the notion of intentional wrongdoing. “I am not a cheater; I am someone who loves my sport and loves the game. I don’t like to cheat; I like to win fairly,” he added, emphasizing his passion for soccer and his integrity.

The World Cup champion acknowledges his role in the situation, admitting that he ingested the banned substance unknowingly through a supplement. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the length of his original suspension, which has been reduced from four years to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). This ruling allows him to return to competitive play in March 2025, a timeline he views as more appropriate given the circumstances. “If I have to be punished, I am fine with it, but it should never be four years. I will accept 12 months,” Pogba stated.

Pogba’s contract with Juventus runs until June 2026, and despite considering retirement in the wake of the ban, he quickly dismissed the idea. “It came to my mind. As soon as it did, I threw it away. I did not want to think about this,” he reflected. His thoughts also extend to his national team, Les Bleus, with whom he hopes to reunite on the pitch in the future.

“I would love to be on the pitch, any pitch,” Pogba affirmed, as he looks forward to resuming training with his teammates. “It’s tough training alone; it passes by yourself. The main focus is to get back training and fit, to be on the pitch and do what I love.” His commitment to returning to soccer is not only a personal journey but also a testament to his resilience and love for the sport.

As Pogba prepares for his return, the soccer community watches closely. His story is one of redemption and determination, showcasing the challenges athletes face in maintaining integrity within a highly competitive environment.

Meta Description: Paul Pogba speaks out on his journey back to soccer following a doping ban, emphasizing integrity and resilience as he prepares for his return to the pitch.