What Man United Fans Are Saying About Paul Pogba’s ‘New Role’

By Naveen Kelvin | July 4, 2020

Peter Powell/Pool via REUTERS

Manchester United were a side to be feared as they absolutely battered AFC Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Saturday, the final scoreline reading 5-2.

Goals came seemingly from everywhere for the Red Devils who had a brace from Mason Greenwood, an excellent freekick from Bruno Fernandes, a well-found penalty from Marcus Rashford, and yet another goal from Anthony Martial to their credit at the end of the game.

Eddie Howe’s side did show some mettle during the game, evidenced by Junior Stanislas’s brilliant opener and Joshua King’s penalty, but the relegation-bound side were overpowered by United.

Curiously absent from the scoresheet was Paul Pogba, who did have several close chances to his name. He has been exceptional since his return from injury and has contributions to his name, but has been shy in front of goal, which is a surprise given his excellent tally from the last campaign.

This is largely due to the deeper role he has taken up in the midfield and absolutely aced at, which fans took note of and commented upon on Twitter along with general praise for the Frenchman’s performance on Saturday.

 

This Pogba is certainly reminiscent of the one that led France to World Cup glory back in 2018 and the role is certainly fitting.

A deep-lying playmaker isn’t exactly the style that has come to be expected of him, especially as there have been repeated calls to field him in a more offensive spot, but the sheer brilliance with which he operates over there is nothing short of remarkable.

It will certainly be interesting to see if he still wishes to be exit-bound after such performances from his side, competitive at their best, and he does appear more than content in his role and contributions.