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Paul Pogba suspended from football following doping test: A closer look at the controversy

Paul Pogba has been suspended from the sport after failing a doping test, revealing elevated levels of testosterone in his system.

Football Paul Pogba suspended from football following doping test: A closer look at the controversy osf
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First Published Sep 12, 2023, 9:59 AM IST

Paul Pogba's football career has taken an unexpected turn as he finds himself suspended from the sport, following a failed doping test. Italy's national anti-doping tribunal officially confirmed this development on a somber Monday for the talented midfielder.

The pivotal moment leading to Pogba's suspension occurred after Juventus' commanding 3-0 victory over Udinese on August 20. Surprisingly, Pogba had been relegated to the bench as an unused substitute during that game, raising eyebrows about his absence from the pitch.

However, the subsequent doping test results shed light on the reason behind his absence, as they revealed elevated levels of testosterone in Pogba's system. Testosterone, a hormone known for enhancing athletes' endurance, had surfaced in his test results, prompting an immediate suspension as a precautionary measure.

NADO Italia released a statement addressing the situation, stating, "In acceptance of the instance proposed by the National Anti-doping Prosecutor, it has provided for the provisional suspension of the athlete Paul Labile Pogba." This decision was a necessary step in upholding the integrity of the sport and ensuring compliance with anti-doping regulations.

The tribunal elaborated on the nature of Pogba's violation, citing the presence of "non-endogenous testosterone metabolites," which indicated that the prohibited substance had originated from an external source. These findings raised serious concerns about potential doping.

To ensure fairness and accuracy in the assessment, a second sample from Pogba will be subjected to testing. Only after this 'B' sample analysis can a definitive conclusion be drawn regarding the doping test's outcome. Should the 'B' sample return negative, the entire test will be considered null and void, providing a glimmer of hope for Pogba's future in football.

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It's essential to emphasize the severity of the consequences that can accompany a failed doping test, particularly if it is determined that the athlete's use of prohibited substances was intentional. A four-year ban from the sport is a potential punishment that hangs over the situation like a dark cloud.

Meanwhile, Pogba has found himself on the sidelines due to a back injury sustained during the match against Empoli, despite briefly making appearances in games against Bologna and Empoli. Juventus' manager, Massimiliano Allegri, expressed his disappointment, saying, "Pogba felt a pain in the back, we'll see what the exams say. Too bad because [his appearance] went well." This injury serves as an added layer of complexity to Pogba's current predicament.

In conclusion, Paul Pogba's suspension from football following a positive doping test has sent shockwaves through the sporting world. As the investigations continue, the football community anxiously awaits the results of the 'B' sample analysis and the resolution of this high-stakes ordeal for the talented midfielder.

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