Paul Pogba has said he is “sad, shocked and heartbroken” after learning of his four-year football ban for doping, confirming he will appeal the “incorrect verdict”.
The 30-year-old was given a four-year ban from football after tests showed elevated levels of testosterone in his system following Juventus’s 3-0 win at Udinese in August, in which he did not play.
Pogba was initially given a provisional suspension and he has not featured for Juventus since September.
The French 2018 World Cup winner’s ban will run until 2028, effectively ending his career as he will be approaching his 35th birthday when it ends.
“I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping's decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect,” Pogba posted on social media.
“I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.
“When I am free of legal restrictions the full story will become clear, but I have never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations.
“As a professional athlete I would never do anything to enhance my performance by using banned substances and have never disrespected or cheated fellow athletes and supporters of any of the teams I have played for, or against.
“As a consequence of the decision announced today I will appeal this before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.”
