Juventus star Paul Pogba admitted ‘it’s difficult’ to stay on the sidelines after being handed a four-year ban by the anti-doping authority and noted how his ‘focus is on staying fit’.
The 31-year-old French midfielder has not played a single minute of professional football since September 2023 after being handed a four-year ban by NADO Italia following a failed doping test. He has been suspended by the Old Lady since, receiving the minimum salary allowed.
Pogba has continued to argue against intentional wrongdoing in the case and has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in an attempt to overturn the four-year ban, which lasts until the Autumn of 2027.
Pogba opens up
Speaking to Forbes, Pogba underlined the personal difficulties of the ban and how it feels being kept on the sidelines of football, having to watch his Juventus and France teammates from the stands.
“It’s difficult to be totally honest. Football has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. However, I have my family, my faith, my friends, and my fans who have supported me, which makes things easier. All will be well.”
He then provided a brief update on his appeal and desire to return to the pitch.
“Although I can’t speak so much about this, all roads lead to the appeal date. Until then, my focus is on staying fit and looking forward to the appeal.”
Yes , he does struggle with being totally honest!