Pogba’s Man Utd Flop: Robson Says Focus Was Lost

Paul Pogba’s Manchester United Struggles: Robson’s Candid Verdict

Paul Pogba’s Manchester United career remains one of football’s most polarizing topics. The French midfielder, once the world’s most expensive player, rejoined the Red Devils from Juventus in 2016 for a record-breaking £89 million fee. However, according to Manchester United legend Bryan Robson, Pogba’s return to Old Trafford was derailed because he “forgot about football,” prioritizing his off-field persona and social media activities over the game itself.

Pogba’s Arrival and High Expectations

Pogba’s return to Manchester United was met with enormous fanfare and equally high expectations. Signed to be the centerpiece of a new era, the midfielder was seen as the missing link in Manchester United’s pursuit of silverware. He brought with him not just talent, but also a reputation for charisma, flair, and leadership developed during his successful spell at Juventus.

Despite flashes of brilliance, Pogba’s form at United was inconsistent. Injuries, managerial changes, and tactical shifts often left him struggling to find his best position or rhythm in the team. While he did contribute to Manchester United’s 2017 Europa League and EFL Cup triumphs, the consistency and influence he displayed in Italy were rarely replicated in the Premier League.

Pogba “Forgot About Football,” Says Robson

Bryan Robson, one of Manchester United’s most respected former captains, recently sparked debate by claiming Pogba’s focus drifted from the pitch to his social image. Robson stated, “Paul forgot about football. He was more bothered about his social media, with all the dancing and videos. That should have been banned in the dressing room.” Robson’s comments reflect a sentiment shared by segments of the fanbase and punditry—frustration that Pogba’s off-field interests overshadowed his footballing responsibilities.

The Dressing Room Dynamic

Robson argued that the culture in United’s dressing room shifted during Pogba’s tenure. The increased emphasis on personal branding and social media presence, he suggested, challenged the traditional values of focus and discipline that underpinned the club’s past successes. Robson believes stricter guidelines regarding off-field behavior—such as banning certain activities in the dressing room—could have helped Pogba and others remain more focused on footballing matters.

The Impact on Pogba’s United Legacy

There is little doubt Pogba is a world-class talent. His technical ability, vision, and athleticism are undeniable. Nevertheless, Robson’s comments highlight why Pogba’s United legacy is debated. Many supporters feel he never truly fulfilled his potential at Old Trafford, partially due to distractions away from the pitch.

After leaving Manchester United in 2022, Pogba returned to Juventus, aiming to rediscover his best form. Despite occasional glimpses of his talent, injuries and other setbacks have continued to affect his career trajectory.

Modern Football and Social Media’s Influence

Pogba’s story also reflects broader trends in modern football, where athletes’ personal brands are often as significant as their on-field performances. The rise of social media has transformed how players interact with fans and market themselves. While this can increase engagement and commercial appeal, it also raises questions about maintaining focus and professionalism in a demanding sport.

Pogba’s Struggles at Manchester United: A Lesson for Future Stars

Robson’s perspective on Pogba serves as a cautionary tale for young footballers. While building a brand and engaging with fans is part of the modern game, it should never come at the expense of footballing focus and team responsibilities. Balancing personal expression with commitment to the sport remains a challenge for today’s players.

For aspiring stars and club management alike, Pogba’s experience at Manchester United underscores the importance of strong leadership and clear expectations within the dressing room.

Opinion: A Talent Unfulfilled at Old Trafford

In my opinion, Paul Pogba remains one of the most gifted midfielders of his generation. However, his Manchester United stint will likely be remembered as a case where immense promise went largely unfulfilled. While external factors like injuries and managerial instability played a role, Robson’s assessment rings true—focus and commitment to football must always be the top priority, especially at clubs with Manchester United’s stature. For more news, visit for more news.