France midfielder Paul Pogba has claimed that he’s received “more criticism than any player in the world” ever since his mega-money transfer to Manchester United.
Pogba’s comments come after France’s opening game of the 2018 World Cup against Australia, which his side won 2-1. The Manchester United star played an integral part in the game and was initially credited with the winning goal; deflected from Australia’s Aziz Behich.
#Téléfoot
Paul Pogba : “J’ai moins droit à l’erreur que les autres. Je suis passé du plus gros transfert au monde au joueur le plus critiqué au monde”. pic.twitter.com/gB3oC8UIml— Téléfoot (@telefoot_TF1) June 17, 2018
However, while FIFA has since ruled the effort as an own goal, Pogba also played a killer pass through to Antoine Griezmann which led to France’s first goal of the tournament — from the penalty spot.
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France did, however, make hard work of their win over Australia, with a number of their players playing as individuals rather than a team.
Speaking to French outlet Telefoot, Pogba spoke out about his treatment, which we also agree has been quite harsh.
He said: “I am less entitled to make mistakes than others. I went from the biggest transfer in the world to the most criticised player in the world. As the coach said, we have to do better.”
Pogba has a point but there’s only one way he can fix this situation and that’s why adding consistency to his game.
The United midfielder’s feelings were echoed by his former teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Currently playing for MLS outfit LA Galaxy and working as a pundit on BeIN Sports, the striker said: “Pogba is controversial, the media always talks about him and I think this out of jealousy.
“He has a big salary and always plays at the big matches and tournaments. He is the best midfielder in the world and because of that has a lot of haters.”
Whilst I agree with Pogba on the criticism, to label him ‘the best midfielder in the world’ is ridiculous.
Pogba’s France will meet Peru in their next match in Group C.
