Manchester United's Paul Pogba: Will He Leave in January 2020?

The speculation around Paul Pogba's future has intensified, with many questioning whether his agent's ongoing trouble and his unfulfilled desire to leave Manchester United could lead to a transfer in January 2020. Given the club's current position, it seems highly unlikely that they would willingly weaken their squad further.

Is a Transfer in January 2020 Feasible?

Transfers during the January window, though less common, are still occasionally seen. However, it is highly improbable that such a high-profile move as Pogba's would take place this early in the season. Typically, January is a time for clubs to address injuries or poor form, rather than significant signings. Moreover, the current lack of a top-four position for Manchester United implies that they are stable enough to continue without Pogba's contribution.

Agent Mino Raiola's Statement

Mario Raiola, Pogba's agent, has already stated his intention to wait until the summer transfer window. The statement, “I was talking about next summer. It’s very difficult to see big clubs making these kinds of transfers in January. We will see what happens next summer,” further solidifies the belief that the player will not leave until the summer window opens. This advice is based on historical data and the reality that January transfers are typically not the ideal time for such high-profile moves.

More Realistic Scenarios for Pogba's Future

While the possibility of Pogba leaving in January 2020 is slim, there are other potential scenarios to consider. Teams like Southampton, for instance, were not serious contenders as of the latest updates. The likelihood of Manchester United trading Pogba to Southampton, especially for their old ground, is even less probable.

Optimistically, the board and coaching staff at Manchester United may evaluate Pogba's current contribution and decide that he is not a fundamental player in the core squad. With the likes of Donny van der Beek emerging, it is possible that they might seek to develop their midfield further, potentially by acquiring new players or improving their defense. The current form of Pogba, described as not providing much inspiration and his age (29 as of 2020), may prompt a reassessment.

The Player's Current Performance and Value

There is a consensus that Pogba has not been performing at his best. He is often acknowledged as an excellent player but currently, his physical attributes (being slow) have become more pronounced. The squad's performances suggest that one out of every four games Pogba contributes significantly, leading to questions about his future at the club and his overall value.

Given the current situation, it is hoped that a solution can be found to either address Pogba's fitness and performance issues, or rationalize his departure. While his presence offers a unique blend of skill and finesse, the reality of the January transfer window and the club's current needs weigh heavily against a move at this time.

The ongoing speculation will continue as the transfer window progresses, but for now, it appears that Manchester United and Paul Pogba will remain together until the summer of 2020.