Paul Pogba, Juventus and Ex-Manchester United star, says 'I'm not a cheater' - but takes responsibility for failed doping test
- Paul Pogba wanted to leave Manchester United in 2019 but was blocked by the club's management.
- He faced a four-year doping ban in February 2023, which was later reduced to 18 months after an appeal.
- Pogba is determined to return to professional football and the French national team, emphasizing his commitment to fair play.
In 2019, Paul Pogba expressed a desire to leave Manchester United, feeling that the club was not progressing and that he was mentally uninvested. Despite being the team's top scorer that season, he was blocked from leaving by then-CEO Ed Woodward. Pogba eventually departed Old Trafford in 2022 after a six-year tenure, which included a record transfer fee. In February 2023, he faced a four-year ban for a doping violation, which was later reduced to 18 months after an appeal. He attributed the failed test to a supplement prescribed by a doctor, maintaining that he did not intentionally cheat. The ban's reduction allows him to return to professional football in March 2025, and he aims to resume his international career with France. Throughout this ordeal, Pogba emphasized his commitment to fair play and expressed gratitude for the support of his family during challenging times. He is now focused on making a comeback and proving his worth on the pitch.