Paul Pogba has come in for a whole heap of criticism this season from both the Manchester United fans and his own manager. Recent reports suggest Jose Mourinho even called him a ‘virus’ after the 2-2 draw with Southampton at the weekend, widening the apparent chasm developing between the star player and egotistical manager.
According to several reports, Mourinho told the French World Cup winner after the game: “You don’t play. You don’t respect players and supporters. And you kill the mentality of the good honest people around you.”
Although this does seem a harsh criticism of the midfielder, perhaps Mourinho does have a point. As journalist Duncan Castles pointed out on Twitter, Paul Pogba has given possession away more than anyone else in the Premier League this season.
He tops the leaderboard having given the ball away 252 times ahead of Philip Billing at Huddersfield (249), Granit Xhaka at Arsenal (234) and Luka Milivojevic at Crystal Palace (227).
His dallying on the ball in the middle combined with the fact he is sometimes guilty of trying to play the Hollywood ball stick him at the top of the list and he must do more to keep possession of the ball.
United host a talented Arsenal side tomorrow night and if Pogba is selected to play by his beleaguered boss, he must put in a much better display, or face being exposed by an energetic Arsenal midfield. Aaron Ramsey and the impressive new signing Lucas Torreira will be entrusted to win the midfield battle for Unai Emery’s side and they could have a field day if Pogba continues to be wasteful on the ball.