Paul Pogba's elite football career might be over after he was punished with a four-year ban for doping - and Mail Sport's readers have weighed in on the controversy. 

He tested positive for testosterone after Juventus' first game of the season in August and was told his fate on Thursday. 

His lawyers insisted he had accidentally ingested the substance that caused the positive test and rejected a plea deal, with hopes of a lighter sentence.  

The 30-year-old has confirmed his intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and told how he is 'heartbroken'.

However, MailOnline's readership offered a withering assessment of his career, with many believing he had squandered his talent.

Paul Pogba has been banned for four years for doping after testing positive for testosterone in August

'What a waste of talent. Had the capability of being one of the greats,' wrote one commenter.   

'One of the most overrated footballers ever,' said another. 

'Stole a living as a footballer for many, many years. Useless,' another commented. 

Pogba's trophy cabinet is the stuff of envy. In 2018, he lifted the World Cup in Russia with France, and he hoovered up four Serie A titles with Juventus. 

Manchester United let him leave on a free to Juventus in 2012, with Sir Alex Ferguson criticising him for a lack of respect.

Four years later, the Red Devils bought him back for £100million in total on a contract worth £290,000 per week. Juventus had won 1-0 in the game of footballing Bargain Hunt, making a titanic profit. 

'His career ended when he re-signed for £90-odd million after leaving, the worst piece of transfer business in history,' one commenter reflected. 

'I've always said he's worth 1 pound. And that was generous,' said another. 

'Sir Alex [Ferguson] was right all along, as were the likes of Mourinho etc. who had run-ins with this clown. He was never world class!! He won a WC medal but did the same as what Kalvin Phillips did earning his Champions League, FA Cup, league medals at City!!!' another said. 

Indeed, Ferguson's wisdom was picked up on by many. Another wrote: 'Looks like Sir Alex was right all along, content for Pogba to run down his contract and leave on a free due to the player's negative attitude. Does it remind you of a player who is still at the club?'

Some felt that Pogba's trajectory and demise should be heeded by other footballers today. 

'Wasted talent. Once United gave these guys huge money they stopped playing football. Rashford should be careful,' said one. 

Another commented: 'One or two others still on the books at Old Trafford should study this very closely, bad attitude and an over-belief in one's ability can have very serious consequences long-term.'

Pogba's price tag was always going to follow him around and bring him under a stronger glare than other players, and that wasn't his fault. 

With Manchester United crumbling in the wake of Ferguson's departure, no one player can be blamed for their downfall.

Some Mail Sport fanatics took a softer view than the clamorous majority. 

'Made millions, won countless medals, most importantly a World Cup. Most expensive player in the world at one point. Played for two of the most prestigious clubs in the world. Now retired at 30, coming from a poor African background, I think you can call this a success,' one wrote. 

For clarity, Pogba was born and raised in France but his parents are Guinean and he had a humble upbringing, sharing a bed with four others in his mother's small Parisian apartment. He has not yet retired, as the user above wrote. 

Another said: 'So many harsh comments. I don't believe Paul Pogba knew he was doping. It looks like I'm in a tiny minority of people who wishes him well in his appeal.

'Fair enough he didn't play to his high standard regularly but I just can't believe he would knowingly dope.'

One commented: 'A cautionary tale. Here is a young guy who reached the pinnacle and the moment he arrived in that heady atmosphere, he rejected all the virtues that got him there in the first place. Whether you are a fan or not, it’s a shame.'

Another wrote: 'Sad but not too surprising ending of a career. Very, very talented player, but did not have the right mindset, probably took it for granted.' 

Others couldn't resist a pointed jibe. 

'Plenty of time to spend at the hair stylist now,' one comedian quipped.