Gabriel Barbosa, a target for Newcastle United, was handed a two-year penalty for trying to commit anti-doping fraud. “Gabigol” was a target for the Magpies during their search for a new striker following his impressive performance for Flamengo, a Brazilian club. The Chronicle claims that in January 2022, there were some quick talks about signing Barbosa. The plan was to bring him in on a six-month loan before agreeing to a permanent contract of £17 million. However, the prohibition has now diminished any possibility of bringing the Brazilian international in. Barbosa reportedly made it challenging to provide an anti-doping test prior to a game, according to Brazilian media.
Barbosa fiercely refutes the claims. The 27-year-old, who has made eighteen appearances for his country, uploaded a post on X upon the announcement of the ban. “I hope the higher court will clear me because I have never attempted to obstruct or defraud any test.” He stated. “Ever since I started playing football, I have adhered to the regulations of the game and have never taken any prohibited substances. “I have been subjected to dozens of tests, all of which have always been negative.” Barbosa plans to file an appeal against the charge in an effort to play football sooner than anticipated.
