Forgotten Premier League star and ‘next Lionel Messi’, 28, BANNED for four years for use of illegal substance

The winger has also been facing a forgery case in his homeland
FORMER Premier League star Ramadan Sobhi has been suspended for four-years following a doping violation, according to reports.

The ex-Stoke City and Huddersfield ace, 28, initially failed a drugs test in March 2024.

Sobhi, who now plays for Pyramids FC in Egypt having been dubbed “the Egyptian Messi” as a youngster, was subsequently hit with a provisional ban.

This suspension went on to be lifted by the Egyptian Anti-Doping Organization in July last year following a vote.

The World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) appealed the decision, seeking a four-year suspension.

Per Egyptian outlet Yallakora, the Court of Arbitration for Sport has sided with WADA, opting to impose a four-year ban on Sobhi.

The footballer can still appeal the decision in federal court.

Sobhi last played for his club in a Fifa Intercontinental Cup match on September 14.

He has since been missing with a knee injury.

The Egyptian has previously earned 37 caps for his country – but has not played for the Pharaohs since 2022.

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Sobhi has also been accused of forgery in his homeland.

It has been alleged that the footballer falsified paperwork at the Pharaonic Higher Institute for Tourism and Hotels, and that he even got someone else to sit an exam for him.

Sobhi has denied the allegations.

Per Yallakora, he said: “I have no knowledge of these certificates or records… I have never seen them, and I am still a third-year student.”

A verdict is expected to be announced on December 30.