While Paul Pogba’s talent has rarely been in doubt, it’s a clear indication of his career so far that he leaves Manchester United under a cloud.
Pogba’s second spell with the Reds will come to an end this summer after it was confirmed by United on Wednesday he will be leaving the club at the end of his contract. He now looks set to make a return to Juventus, with the Turin club reportedly close to wrapping up a deal for the 29-year-old.
The midfielder has of course won the biggest prize of them all at international level, and was instrumental in France’s World Cup win in 2018. And yet, there remains a major question mark over his club career.
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When he made his return to Old Trafford in 2016 for a then-world record fee of £89million, Pogba was being hailed as one of the world’s biggest superstars, and the missing piece to get United back challenging for the Premier League title. He even had the seal of approval from a legendary figure in the game, with Zinedine Zidane predicting big things.
"Maybe we are talking about Pogba a bit too much, but if he can keep up his current development he can become one of the best players ever," Zidane declared.
Six years on though, we’re left to reflect on a spell at United that failed to deliver on so much promise. Fans were left continually frustrated with the French international’s efforts, so much so that he was greeted with a hostile reception during his final outing at Old Trafford.
For all that has been expected of Pogba over the years, the midfielder has not delivered on a regular enough basis. There have been glimpses of his talent, but certainly nothing more than that during his time with United.
His off-field antics haven’t helped his cause, having raised the ire of supporters on more than a few occasions after touting his exit. Having now left the club, it’s far from a fond farewell, and he’s yet to meet Zidane’s lofty expectations.
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