Paul Pogba was reportedly one of the few players who commanded respect from Cristiano Ronaldo as Manchester United's season fell apart.
It was announced on Wednesday that the Frenchman has departed Old Trafford after his contract expired. He had steadily fallen foul of United fans for his performances and actions off the pitch, with his exit looking all but certain for much of the campaign.
His last appearance came in the dreadful hammering at the hands of Liverpool in April, when he was forced off injured. But while United fans may be glad to have seen him depart, it would appear that he remained popular in the Old Trafford dressing room.
According to The Athletic, Pogba 'commanded major respect' from superstar Ronaldo, who returned to United last summer. The duo are said to have had a close relationship during the former's final season at the club.
Ronaldo even went as far as to say that he 'wished' he had been able to play with Pogba during his time at Real Madrid. The attacker's desire to play with the World Cup winner is said to have stemmed from the 'variety and quality' of his passing ability.
Their relationship also saw Pogba 'lobby' Ronaldo to more constructive when giving feedback to younger players. Ronaldo grew increasingly frustrated with the less experienced players in the United squad and displayed that annoyance publicly on several occasions.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Who should be Manchester United's top target to replace Paul Pogba? Comment below.
But it would appear that Pogba took it upon himself to convince Ronaldo to be more of a leader to those players. Though he would only play 11 Premier League games under his management, Pogba is said to have 'got on' with interim boss Ralf Rangnick following a 'productive' meeting early into his tenure.
It is also stated that the German 'valued' Pogba's efforts in mediating between the different groups within what became a fractured dressing room. But now both Pogba and Rangnick have left Old Trafford.
The most likely move for Pogba is a return to Juventus, where he previously spent four successful years. United posted a lengthy farewell message on their website to announce Pogba's exit, thanking him for his efforts across his two spells at the club.
"Pogba's final season at the club started off in hugely promising fashion, with an astonishing four assists in our opening-day thrashing of Leeds United, but more injury problems would ultimately derail his ambitions," the statement read.
"It was a low-key end to a United career that had brought so many individual high moments, so many beautiful goals, assists and pieces of skill. But for a boy that joined the Academy at 16 to make over 200 United appearances and lift the Youth Cup, along with two major pieces of silverware – not to mention the World Cup at international level – is something that should be applauded and celebrated.
"Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Paul on his successful career, and thank him for his contributions to Manchester United. We wish him all the best for the next steps on a remarkable journey."
