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Soccer

Paul Pogba’s second spell at Man United all but over

The France international started in midfield on Saturday in what was likely to be one of his last ever starts for the Premier League club.

Kieran Quaile
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 16: Paul Pogba of Manchester United in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Norwich City at Old Trafford on April 16, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
Naomi BakerGetty

Manchester United fans protested before their side’s game at home to Norwich City on Saturday. Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a hat-trick in a 3-2 win over a struggling Norwich side.

Paul Pogba started in midfield in what was likely to be one of his last ever starts for the Premier League club. The France international was substituted in the 74th minute, with Marcus Rashford coming for the final stages of the home win.

Pogba started in the base of a midfield three for United and reminded fans of the importance of having a deep-lying player at Old Trafford. After an underwhelming second stint at the club, the Frenchman will likely leave United at the end of the season.

United could be looking to sign a specialist defensive midfielder in the next transfer window, one who is comfortable with the ball at their feet. Pogba, despite having the ability, never showed any interest in playing in that role but featured there on Saturday due to injuries to Fred and Scott McTominay.

Fans have a go at Pogba

After the game, interim manager Ralf Rangnick said he did not immediately hear the chants of “F*** off Pogba” that came from the stands, but he said fans should not isolate individuals.

Pogba cupped his ear to the United fans at one point and appeared to hear their taunts as he returned to his seat on the home bench.

“I didn’t hear it myself, but I was informed after the game,” Rangnick said. “I can fully understand the fans are frustrated, so are we, but I don’t think they should take on individual players. I don’t think that is right or correct.”

Pogba’s departure is imminent, with a move expected this summer. PSG and Juventus are among the suitors.