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Juventus: Allegri reacts to Pogba situation after positive doping test

Paul Pogba at Juventus
© Ace Football
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The French midfielder is facing a potential long-term ban from football.

Massimiliano Allegri has sympathized with Paul Pogba over his situation after a positive doping test.

On Friday, counter-analysis tests confirmed the Frenchman had used a prohibited substance. The 30-year-old, who is already suspended by Juventus, will now have to prove his innocence to avoid a long-term ban from football.

According to Sky Sports, if found guilty, Pogba could be handed a ban of up to four years for violating anti-doping rules. DHEA is reportedly the substance found in both of the samples taken from Pogba.

Speaking to reporters after Juventus’ 2-0 win over Torino on Saturday, Allegri reacted to Pogba’s situation, saying: “On a human level, I am very close to him. I knew him since he was a young boy. It is a great pity for all of football to lose a player who was special. 

“It is a difficult moment for him and we can only wish him the best.”

Since returning to Juve from Manchester United last year, Pogba has made only eight Serie A appearances. The Bianconeri now have the option to terminate the 30-year-old’s contract without having to pay a compensation fee. 

Pogba is reportedly planning to request a hearing with an independent tribunal, hoping to avoid a long ban. However, such a lengthy process could still keep him out of action until the end of the season.

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