Donald Trump and Pogba: A Return to Familiar Ground
Donald Trump has just been elected president of the United States, and Paul Pogba is being discussed as the solution to Manchester United’s midfield woes. No, it’s not 2016. Pogba’s doping suspension, which expires in March, will allow him to resume his football career. As a free agent, he is not bound by the transfer window restrictions, giving him several options to consider as he attempts to revive his career. One of those options could be a third stint at Old Trafford. The speculation around a potential return to Manchester United has been slow but persistent, especially since his ban was reduced. The Sporting News delves into whether this move is a viable and worthwhile option for both Pogba and United.
The Speculation and Division
Talk of Pogba’s return to Manchester United has gained traction since his doping ban was reduced, allowing him to return to professional football from March. According to a social media report, Pogba has been offered to United and is reportedly open to signing for the club for a third time. Despite his mixed experiences at Old Trafford, Pogba’s interest in joining a top-five European league team suggests he remains committed to proving himself at a high level. However, the decision-makers within United are divided over whether to offer Pogba a contract. At 32, Pogba has not played in a competitive match for over a year, and his suitability to Ruben Amorim’s system, where Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have struggled, is a significant concern. United’s current injury crisis, however, might make this risk more appealing, especially given their financial flexibility after loaning out players like Marcus Rashford and Antony.
Paul Pogba’s Manchester United Journey
Pogba’s journey with Manchester United has been a rollercoaster. He joined the United academy from Le Havre in 2009 but left for Juventus on a free transfer in 2012 due to limited first-team opportunities. His exceptional performances in Serie A, alongside stars like Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, and Arturo Vidal, under coaches Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri, convinced United to buy him back for a then-world record transfer fee of €105 million. Initially, Pogba’s return was promising, but his relationship with Jose Mourinho soured, and his performances became inconsistent. Under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Pogba showed moments of brilliance, but by 2019, he was openly seeking a new challenge. Inconsistent performances and injury problems further diminished his impact, and he left on a free transfer at the end of the 2021/22 season.
Pogba’s Manchester United Stats and Trophies
During his two stints at Old Trafford, Pogba made a total of 226 appearances, scoring 39 goals. His trophy cabinet includes the Europa League and EFL Cup, both won in 2017, and he helped the team achieve second-place finishes in the Premier League in 2018 and 2021. Despite these accolades, his time at United was marked by highs and lows, making the idea of a return both intriguing and fraught with uncertainty.
Alternative Landing Spots for Pogba
If Pogba’s return to Manchester United doesn’t happen, several other clubs could be in the running to sign him. The Major League Soccer (MLS) has been mentioned as a possible destination. Inter Miami, featuring stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, might be beyond Pogba’s salary limits, making LAFC a more realistic option. LAFC reportedly sounded out Pogba in October, and his former France teammate Olivier Giroud could play a crucial role in persuading him to move.
European and Saudi Arabian Options
In Europe, Marseille has been mentioned as a potential landing spot. President Pablo Longoria has considered the practicality of signing Pogba, but head coach Roberto De Zerbi has indicated that the club doesn’t necessarily need him, given their strong position in Ligue 1 and Champions League qualification prospects. However, this option shouldn’t be completely ruled out. Another possibility is a move to Saudi Arabia, where the league is willing to offer lucrative contracts. As a practicing Muslim, Pogba might find personal appeal in such a move, though the league’s recent focus on younger players could limit his chances. Despite these challenges, the potential for a high salary and a new challenge make this an intriguing possibility.
Pogba’s future remains uncertain, but the speculation around a return to Manchester United and other possible destinations highlights the ongoing interest in one of football’s most controversial and talented figures.
