THE Premier League will return shortly and Manchester United fans are already getting excited about the prospect of seeing Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba starting together in the same XI.
Pre-lockdown, it appeared the writing was on the wall for Pogba and that he was certain to move abroad to a new club before the start of the 2020/21 season.
But the uncertain times mean an uncertain transfer window and the potential partnership he could forge with Fernandes, United’s January signing, could alter the mindset of some in United’s boardroom, and who knows, possibly even the player himself.
Is Fernandes’ arrival what Pogba needed to see, to help him rediscover his best form and commit to the club for the coming years? Before the unforeseen disruption to the season, I’d have said absolutely not.
However, it could well be part of the case.
If Pogba needed reassurances that United were trying to move in the right direction, then he need only look at the signing of Fernandes and the immediate impact he’s made at the club.
And now reports state Manchester United are confident the Portuguese’s arrival will help keep the World Cup winner at the club.
Pogba could argue that he isn’t surrounded by enough world-class players at Old Trafford – but Fernandes isn’t far away from that level.
And if the likes of Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood can continue to develop over the next 18 months, then Pogba could find himself at the centre of something quite special.
Before the season temporarily drew to a halt, we saw in glimpses of Fernandes and Juan Mata linking up well together.
It was a pleasure to see two technically-gifted players interchanging fluently and creating space for others either through clever movement, or a deft pass.
And the same could and should be possible for Pogba and Fernandes, which will be music to the ears of Anthony Martial, Dan James, Greenwood and Rashford.
Fernandes is practically “undroppable” and Solskjaer has already gone on record and said that Pogba will play for United again, so it’ll be interesting to see how he and his coaching staff can find a way for them both to be used together.
Pogba is generally at his best when he is given the freedom to roam and be creative, like for France, but at international level he’s often supported by N’Golo Kante who is on hand to cover some of his defensive shortcomings.
If Solskjaer does go for three in midfield, and two of these are Pogba and Fernandes, then either Fred or Scott McTominay will have to perform a disciplined role in front of the back four.
The best teams in Europe have an array of attacking talent that is capable of causing problems in the final third.
If Solskjaer can get his exciting attacking midfield duo playing at their best, then it might mean a happier and longer ending to Pogba’s second stay at the club.
If United face difficulties in the transfer market securing new players, then it may be worth asking Pogba to stay and try to lead another great side.
Regardless, the best way for Pogba to secure a move away is to play well for his club – if that’s what he really desires.
Personally, I’d prefer Pogba to be sold and the money invested in British talent like Jack Grealish.
Technically, he isn’t as good as Pogba, but his desire and commitment has never been questioned, something that hasn’t always been said of the Frenchman.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/football/premier-league/chelsea-sell-mario-pasalic-to-atalanta-for-13m-as-lampard-given-extra-funds-to-land-jadon-sancho-and-chilwell-transfers
