Huge ban looming after World Cup star's latest doping blow

Paul Pogba’s B sample also tested positive for testosterone, meaning the Juventus midfielder now faces a doping investigation.

The exams were carried out by Nado Italia, Italy’s anti-doping agency, which suspended Pogba provisionally nearly a month ago following a positive test carried out after Juventus’ game at Udinese on August 20.

Pogba did not play in the Serie A match but was on Juventus' bench.

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Pogba remains suspended provisionally and risks a ban of up to four years.

Neither Pogba nor Juventus has publicly contested the results of the tests.

“Humanely, I’m sorry for Paul,” Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said on Friday.

The doping case is another negative note for a player who has been bothered by injuries ever since rejoining Juventus from Manchester United a little more than a year ago.

He was ruled out of France’s run to the World Cup final last year due to a knee injury and played in only six Serie A matches for Juventus last season.

There’s also been a police investigation ongoing in France into allegations that Pogba was targeted by extortionists — including by his older brother, Mathias, who has denied any wrongdoing.

Pogba won the 2018 World Cup with France and scored a goal as his country defeated Croatia 4-2 in the final.

He also won the UEFA Nations League with France in 2021.

Among his other achievements are four Serie A title wins with Juventus and a Europa League title triumph with Manchester United.