Manchester United summer signing Paul Pogba has been under intense scrutiny since his move to Old Trafford.
As the season gradually winds down, many still question the motive behind his signing from Juventus.
Manchester United were knocked out of yet another competition this season – the FA Cup – by Premier League leaders Chelsea so it was natural that fans started a review of the season over two months out. The Red Devils still have the Europa League and a top four spot in the league to fight for.
Pogba’s confidence has greatly improved compared to when he first re-joined the club from the Serie A champs. However, on many accounts, he is still deemed underserving of such huge transfer fees and wages. While it has not beeneasy for the French star – who has probably decided to seek comfort from his social media bravado, haircuts, and off-the-pitch activities – he likely knows he is not matching expectations by a mile.
Pogba has to draw his socks quick before the season ends, and do way better next term to appease the fans. If he does turn around to impress next year, he would join the league of stars that moved to the Premier League with high expectations but started slowly.
Michael Essien and Didier Drogba started their careers at Stamford Bridge on a not-so-good note. The Blues has to use Ukraine legend Andriy Shevchenko and German ex-star Michael Ballack to augment the team until the African stars turned their time at the club around.
At United, Jaap Stam also took time to adapt and United paid dearly for allowing him walk. Alexis Sanchez impressed immediately he joined from Barcelona, so did N’Golo Kante from Leicester but we are all different. Any attempt the player makes at ‘Brand Pogba’ just adds to the pressure to perform – his primary responsibility. For now, he gets more time.