Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba stated he’s “not a cheater” however accepted accountability for the failed doping check that led to a ban.
Pogba’s four-year ban was decreased to 18 months earlier this month after the Court docket of Arbitration for Sport accepted his ingestion of a banned substance “was not intentional”.
The 31-year-old was suspended by Italy’s nationwide anti-doping tribunal (Nado) in February after a medication check discovered elevated ranges of testosterone – a hormone that will increase endurance – in his system.
“This isn’t me, I am not a cheater,” Pogba instructed Sky Sports activities.
“I am somebody that loves my sport, I like the sport and I’d by no means, ever cheat. I wish to win pretty.
“I am a foul loser however I am not a cheater.”
The decreased ban began from 11 September 2023, with sources near the Pogba telling BBC Sport that he can resume coaching in January and might be eligible to play once more from March.
“I take some accountability as a result of I took the complement, ” Pogba added.
“I did not triple verify, to illustrate it like that, even when it got here from an expert. If I’ve to be punished, I’m fantastic with it, however it ought to by no means be 4 years.”
Pogba joined Juventus, reuniting with the Italian membership in July 2022 after his contract at Manchester United expired.
He featured simply 12 instances throughout all competitions after returning to Turin, with accidents limiting his gametime in 2022-23, whereas he performed simply twice final season earlier than he was pulled for the constructive check.
Pogba stays below contract with Juventus, his deal is ready to run out in the summertime of 2026, and is trying ahead to getting again to coaching with the remainder of the squad.
“I’d similar to to be on the pitch, any pitch,” Pogba stated.
“First it is with Juventus. I wish to be on the coaching with group mates, it is robust to be alone, taking part in passes on to the wall.
“My fundamental focus is to get again coaching, be match and to be on the pitch doing what I like.”
