Paul Pogba finally sets the record straight over ‘doping ban’ in new tell-all interview ahead of return to football

Former Manchester United player Paul Pogba has denied being a “cheater” and accepted responsibility for his failed doping test, which resulted in a four-year ban from football. Following a successful appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), his suspension was reduced to 18 months, allowing him to return to play in March 2025.

In a recent interview ahead of his comeback, the 31-year-old claimed he has “never taken performance-enhancing drugs” intentionally and characterized himself as an “honest person” who does not cheat.

“I prefer to win fairly,” he told Sky Sports. “I hate losing, but cheating is not part of my character.” Pogba admitted he “didn’t triple check” his supplement use and took responsibility for testing positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in the first match of the 2023/24 season.

“I acknowledge I used the supplement, but I didn’t verify it thoroughly—despite it being from a professional,” he said. “If punishment is needed, I can accept that, but a four-year ban was too harsh. I can accept 12 months.”

He insists that the substances he consumed were not performance-enhancing, referring to them as “just supplements for health improvement.” When asked how he would reassure fans of his integrity, he stated, “Those who know me understand. Even amid the controversy, many said: ‘We know Paul; he would never do that. If he did, it wouldn’t have been intentional.’ This is completely true. I am an honest person.”

Pogba is still a Juventus player, but there is speculation about a possible move away from Italy, with interest from clubs in Ligue 1 and the United States.

 

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