There was lots of confusion in the air when it was confirmed that Paul Pogba wasn’t named in the squad to face Ajax at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
I sensed frustration amongst the majority of supporters with Ji-sung Park starting, as captain, in a more central position but others were much cooler about recent circumstances, particularly with rumours linking a certain French midfielder to Juventus.
Manchester United offered Pogba a contract promising £25,000 per week but Ferguson confirmed on Wednesday that there had been no progress whatsoever in the talks. Mino Raiola, his agent, is known for sealing good deals for his clients and is apparently demanding £40,000 per week from United.
That sort of money for a player that hasn’t even made half a dozen first team appearances is ludicrous and I can’t see Ferguson giving it any consideration. You must understand that we have lots of talent coming through the ranks and if one of them earns a certain amount they will all expect it; that’s not the way our club is run because you must prove yourself as a first team regular before even dreaming about earning that amount of money.
However, there are people that will say Pogba has not been given the chance to prove himself but at United you must have patience, especially being a youngster. If he expected to walk straight into our first team I’m afraid he needs to wake up and smell the coffee because things don’t work that way. Just look at Ravel Morrison, he thought he was untouchable and could get away with anything but now he finds himself with lower ambitions playing for West Ham, a Championship side.
On January 31, Paul Pogba was given an opportunity as a substitute against Stoke City. He didn’t put a foot wrong while on the pitch and showed immense composure while displaying other brilliant attributes, therefore, you simply cannot deny the fact he is a serious prospect. Although, it appears his mind isn’t set on playing for Manchester United which obviously worries me.
My heart wants Pogba to stay but my head tells me different, but whatever happens nobody will ever be bigger than the club and we will move. Ferguson has come out the better man in much tougher situations, so it wouldn’t be the end of the world if Pogba cannot wise up.