Why Pogba Did Not Leave Manchester United: Analyzing the Reasons Behind His Tenure

Paul Pogba, at the age of 27, is far from reaching his peak and has faced numerous challenges due to injuries and financial constraints. This article delves into the reasons why Pogba remains a viable player for Manchester United despite his underwhelming performance and the questions surrounding his future with the club.

Age and Performance

First and foremost, Pogba is not at the stage of his career where he can be seen as a top-tier player. At 27, while still productive, he is far from reaching his peak. His age has not significantly affected his contract or value, nor has it made him a prime candidate for transfer. The market remains cautious about players in their late 20s due to the perceived drop-off in performance and likelihood of injury.

Financial Constraints Post-COVID

The 2020-21 pandemic severely impacted the global market for football transfers, with many financially stable clubs unable to afford high-profile players like Pogba. Financial regulations and cuts forced clubs to prioritize players whose potential was deemed more certifiable. The pandemic’s economic impact significantly reduced transfer budgets, making Pogba’s departure to any club a questionable decision for those with a cautious approach to spending.

Injury History and Performance

Throughout his career, Pogba has suffered from numerous injuries, significantly impacting his performance and consistency. These injuries have hindered his ability to demonstrate his full potential and have made it challenging for top clubs to consider him a reliable asset. The question of whether clubs would risk the significant investment needed to correct his performance, especially with a history of injury, is a critical one in the high-stakes world of football transfers.

Agent and Temperament

Mino Raiola, Pogba's representative, and Pogba himself have created an environment that contributes to his reluctance to leave Manchester United. Raiola's business methods and Pogba's temperament create a dynamic where neither party seems willing to make significant changes that would require compromise. This coalition obstructs the path to a move, keeping Pogba within the club despite financial and performance issues.

Manchester United’s Options and Concerns

Manchester United now faces the reality that dealing with Pogba is necessary until his contract expires. The club will try to assess his remaining value, although it appears unlikely that there are many interested parties. Financial constraints and the club’s future performance are key factors in their decision.

Conclusion

While some fans and analysts question Pogba’s worth, Manchester United may still see value in his presence, particularly in midfield creativity. The lack of viable alternatives may force the club to retain Pogba, hoping for a resurgence in performance or a compromise that allows for his eventual departure on favorable terms. As the season progresses, fans and the transfer market will watch closely to see how Pogba's situation evolves.

Key Points

Paul Pogba at age 27 is not at his peak performance stage. Pandemic and financial constraints diminish the willingness of clubs to invest in high-profile players. Recurring injuries have negatively impacted Pogba's performance and transfer viability. Mino Raiola and Pogba's temperament form a dynamic that resists club changes.

Man United's decision to keep Pogba will depend on his performance in upcoming matches and the club's future needs and options in the transfer market.