Breaking News: Paul Pogba Banned From Football For Four Years Over Doping Violations

The France international was one of the players randomly selected to be tested after Juventus' opening Serie A game of this season against Udinese on August 20.

Even though Pogba was an unused substitute for the encounter he tested positive for high levels of testosterone, which increases athletes' endurance.

He had been provisionally suspended from playing from Juventus since September.

Pogba has denied any wrong doing and intends to contest the punishment which has been handed down by Italy's National Anti-Doping Tribunal.

"I have today been informed of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping's decision and believe that the verdict is incorrect," a statement from the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner read.

"I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.

"When I am free of legal restrictions the full story will become clear, but I have never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations.

"As a professional athlete I would never do anything to enhance my performance by using banned substances and have never disrespected or cheated fellow athletes and supporters of any of the teams I have played for, or against.

"As a consequence of the decision announced today I will appeal this before the Court of Arbitration for Sport."

Pogba will be 34 by the time his ban ends in August 2027.