Should Manchester United sell Paul Pogba?

Should Manchester United sell Paul Pogba?

The conflict of interest at Manchester United is confining the record English champions to unleash their creative prowess. Both Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes comes with their respective flair. While the latter is brilliant in quick interchanges, Pogba can split open a defence with a meticulous long-ball.

Both these traits have worked wonders for United as they have capitalized through Pogba’s extended vision, while Bruno’s quick one-twos have baffled the opposition too.

Now, the question at hand is, are United ready to lose a player like Pogba?

Statistically speaking, United have, in fact, fared considerably well in his absence. The team averaged more points (2.06) without the midfielder in the starting XI than they did (1.83) when he did start. They also had a better win percentage (60%) without him as opposed to when he was in the team (54.8%).

Manchester United played a total of 31 games in the 2020/21 season with the Frenchman in the starting line-up, winning 17 and losing eight. The figure is, in fact, better when he was named on the bench or was out of the matchday squad. United played 30 games without Pogba starting and won 18 while losing just four.

His unavailability meant that United were able to play a midfielder with a more defensive approach. This resulted in the team conceding fewer goals (24) than when he was in the starting XI (44).

Manchester United with Paul Pogba in starting XI – P31, W17, D6, L8 (G: 59, GA: 44)

Manchester United without Paul Pogba in starting XI – P30, W18, D8, L4 (G: 62, GA: 24).

United may not miss Pogba once he is gone, but they need to make sure they acquire someone to fill in the void. Furthermore, if they do decide to accept offers, they need to figure out how they would recoup the amount considering the current state of the transfer market and its potential threats.