Paul Pogba has been banned from football for four years

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has been banned from football for four years for a doping offense.

The ban comes after the former Manchester United player received a provisional suspension last year after a drug test revealed elevated levels of testosterone in his system.

The French international, aged 30, underwent random testing after Juventus’ first match of the season on August 20.

Reports suggest that Pogba is likely to appeal against the decision of Italy’s national anti-doping tribunal (Nado).

The ruling means Pogba will be unable to play until 2027, when he will be 33, with the ban backdated to the date of the failed test.

The France international was put onto the lowest salary available to Juve as they waited on the outcome of a protracted case.

Paul Pogba releases an official statement after four year ban due to doping.

“I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping’s decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect.

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.” he said.