It’s all finally over. Manchester United have announced Paul Pogba as their latest recruit for a world record fee, and everyone has an opinion on it.
Some have applauded the club’s willingness to spend on such a talent, while others seem to think the 23-year-old is overpriced and overrated.
Then again, what would football be without opinions?
With the burden of being labelled the most expensive player of all time (for now), there is a fear the midfielder might end up feeling the pressure, which could be detrimental to his performances, but not everyone sees it that way.
Olivier Dacourt, who once upon a time was a record transfer himself, gave his thoughts to L’Equipe on Tuesday regarding how Pogba might cope.
He said: “It’s difficult everyday because you’re reminded all the time that you’re the biggest transfer, with your wages, especially if the team don’t perform. It can become a heavy burden if your skin isn’t thick enough.
“I took the choice not to think about it too much. He (Pogba) is young, but he seems capable of rising to the challenge. Paul left Manchester because Scholes was a starter and he thought he needed to be more often. He made a name for himself at Juve and comes back through the front door. When you say you want to be the Ballon d’Or, you clearly believe in your ability.”
One thing is a certainty: Paul Pogba isn’t the shy type.
Signing for just under £90m, the former Juventus could make his first appearance of the season on Sunday against Bournemouth in the Premier League.
However, considering he is yet to have a pre-season, United fans might have to wait an extra week before seeing their prodigal son make the big return they’ve all been crying out for.
