Ferdinand offers Pogba important advice after ban
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It's the end of the road for Paul Pogba.

Ferdinand offers Pogba important advice after ban

Faruq Ibrahim 23:41 - 05.03.2024

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand takes a personal angle as he advises Pogba on steps to take following his ban.

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has stepped forward to offer support and advice to Paul Pogba, who recently received a four-year doping ban from Italian authorities. 

Ferdinand, who faced his own doping controversy in 2003, emphasised the importance of transparency and public communication during such challenging times.

What he said

Speaking on his podcast 'Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE,' Ferdinand stated, "I am well placed to sit here and chat about this because I have been through this. I am not going to jump in straight away and say he is guilty, as I have been in this position and I know Paul. I need to hear from him and see some facts."

"I was told by my lawyers and the club, to let the lawyers deal with it and let it run its course and hope they do the right thing by you. If I had my time again and I was Paul Pogba now and I’m innocent, I’m chatting, I’m telling the people this is what happened.

Rio Ferdinand posted this picture after Nigeria's win against South Africa. (Photo Credit: Ferdinand/X)
Pogba is determined to prove his innocence. (Photo Credit: Pogba/IG)
Pogba is determined to prove his innocence. (Photo Credit: Pogba/IG)

"I think he needs to speak - whether they think it messes up the court case or not - they have given him a four-year ban, I don't think it will be two if he appeals because these people will want to make sure they get their amount of blood. He has to look after himself here."

Pogba's Legal Battle and Career Implications

Paul Pogba's doping allegations revolve around a prescription of pills provided by a US doctor to address certain deficiencies identified in his blood tests. Despite the medical justification behind the supplements, Pogba faces a severe ban imposed by Italy's anti-doping court.

However, Pogba's legal team is preparing to challenge the ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, aiming to present a thorough defence to sway the verdict in his favour. 

Nonetheless, the timing of the ban poses a significant threat to Pogba's career trajectory. With the possibility of missing crucial playing years, Pogba could face the challenge of rebuilding his legacy in football.

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