Agent: Pogba remains optimistic & has not given up hope of a return to the pitch

Paul Pogba is remaining 'optimistic' despite waiting to find out if he will be punished after testing positive for testosterone.

The France and Juventus midfielder is facing a ban of up to four years after testing positive following his club's Serie A fixture against Udinese on August 20, a game in which he did not play.

Pogba was provisionally suspended by Italy's national anti-doping tribunal and could face a sporting trial which would determine any potential punishment.

Reports though have suggested that Juventus could cancel Pogba's £130,000-a-week contract if he is banned, bringing a definitive early conclusion to what has been a disappointing second spell with the club.

Pogba's agent, Rafaela Pimenta, has told Sky Sports, as per Get Football News Italy, that the French World Cup winner has not given up hope of a return to the pitch.

She said: 'He's optimistic and he's a hard worker, he's preparing and when it's possible he's ready.'

Pimenta previously stated after Pogba's positive test that he never intended to break the rules.

Football Italia reported that Pogba could receive a four-year ban, if no plea deal is reached and if the judge believes that he 'consciously consumed' DHEA - which is a banned substance that can naturally boost levels of testosterone.

It's said though that Pogba could reach a two-year ban if he 'admits responsibility'.

After he was banned by Italy's national anti-doping tribunal of an initial precautionary basis, he was given three days to request his B sample - which produced the same result.

At present, Pogba is unable to train with the Juventus squad, so he is doing so at home instead with his personal trainer, using the gym and the swimming pool.

Since his return to Turin in July 2022, Pogba has