Paul Pogba had another forgettable outing with Manchester United, as the Red Devils lost 1-0 to Feyenoord in their opening game of the Europa League. According to club legend Paul Scholes, the reason he is failing is that he is trying to do too much
The 23-year-old French footballer couldn’t manage to help Manchester United get their European campaign off to a winning start. Feyenoord youngster Tonny Vilhena helped the Dutch club snatch all three points at Rotterdam, handing Man United their second consecutive defeat.
After the game reputed pundit and Manchester United legend Paul Scholes stated that he felt Pogba was trying to be something he was not.
“Pogba seems to be a little all over the place at times. I think he’s trying to do too much on the ball,” Scholes told BT Sports, according to Goal.
“He’s trying to beat three or four players. He’s running with the ball. He should keep it simple for now. That’s not the player Manchester United bought. They didn’t buy a Messi to go and beat five players and stick it in the top corner all the time. They bought a powerful, strong midfield player who can take the ball.”
The Englishman added that Pogba should better utilize his immense pace and power, focus on playing one-twos rather than trying to dribble by himself.
Feyenoord won the match 1-0. (Photo by Emmanuel Dunand/AFP/Getty Images)
Pogba has played four matches for Manchester United so far, since returning from Juventus as the world’s most expensive player. The 23-year-old Frenchman is yet to score or assist, or even have a major impact on games, and he should heed the advice of his predecessor at Old Trafford.
After the loss in the Manchester derby, many questioned whether his poor form was due to the position he was playing in. However, he failed to show much potential even with a naturally defensive midfielder like Morgan Schneiderlin playing in midfield.
Perhaps Scholes is right in his assessment and Pogba is indeed trying to emulate one of the best footballers in the world. His massive price-tag, the constant scrutiny and expectation of the fans are all bound to be having psychological effects on the 23-year-old.
Manchester United will be hoping that they start winning again, which may help dim the spotlight that is blazing on Pogba after their poor results this past week.
