Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand explains why Paul Pogba 'needs to speak' out publicly about four-year doping ban as ex-defender reflects on own drugs-testing-related suspension

Following a positive test for DHEA, a banned substance known to enhance testosterone levels, Pogba has been slapped with a four-year ban. Ferdinand, who himself weathered a doping controversy in 2003, has extended a hand of support to his former teammate, urging him to speak out and defend his innocence. Reflecting on his own experience, Ferdinand emphasized the importance of transparency and communication during such trying times.

Speaking in his podcast 'Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE' he said: "I am well placed to sit here and chat about this because I have been through this,' Ferdinand said. 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.

"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."

The doping allegations against Pogba stem from a prescription of pills administered by a US doctor, aimed at addressing certain deficiencies identified in his blood tests. Despite the medical justification behind the supplements, Pogba finds himself grappling with the severity of the ban imposed by Italy's anti-doping court, which threatens to truncate his playing career. However, Pogba's legal team is gearing up to challenge the ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, banking on a thorough defence to sway the verdict in his favour.

The timing of the ban couldn't be more detrimental to Pogba's career trajectory, with the midfielder facing the prospect of missing out on crucial playing years if the suspension stands. At nearly 35 years old by the time the ban concludes, Pogba would be left grappling with the aftermath of a decision that could redefine his legacy in football.