“You see this player, he will be extraordinary.” These prophetic words from Sir Alex Ferguson back in 2011 for 17-year-old Paul Pogba hailed him as destined for greatness. Fast forward to today, at 30, fate took a different turn as the Frenchman is now embroiled in a tumultuous battle against a 4-year doping ban. While the midfielder remains resolute in his quest for justice, his wife Maria Zulay Salaues, has come in support, urging Pogba to ‘stay strong.’
The 2018 World Cup winner recently took to Instagram and shared a picture of himself in a B/W filter. Additionally, he also wrote a long message to address his lengthy ban after being informed by the Tribunal Nazionale Antidoping. While labeling the decision as incorrect, Pogba wrote, “I am sad, shocked, and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.” Pogba asserted that the real story will come out soon, as he denied taking any supplements, like testosterone, due to which he is being held guilty.
While acknowledging that he never ‘disrespected or cheated‘ in any way that violated anti-doping regulations, he claimed to appeal his lengthy ban to the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport. As he garnered support from his 61.3 million followers, his significant other, Maria Zulay commented, “The truth will always prevail mi rey, stay strong like you always have been.” Indeed, quite a heartfelt message for Pogba, especially in the need of the hour. Notably, the ban would see the former Manchester United man miss soccer until August 2027.
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This means that he will reach the age of 34, which subtly ends his soccer career. Interestingly, many soccer stars also came in support of Pogba.
Other soccer stars who came in support of Paul Pogba
Former Juventus teammate Paulo Dybala commented with an “I Love You” message, while Kwadwo Asamoah expressed his support for his legal battle. French teammates Blaise Matuidi wrote “Strength my Brother” with Alphonse Areola backing Pogba with a few emojis. Defenders also came in support as Harry Maguire and Martin Caceres joined the comment section.
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Moreover, female soccer star Wendie Renard commented, “Strength Pioche.” The remaining messages resonated with sincere support and encouragement for Pogba. Nevertheless, despite such testing times, Paul Pogba finds solace and strength in the unwavering support of his loved ones as he persists in his quest for justice. It remains to be seen how he navigates such turbulent waters.