WHERE WILL POGBA PLAY UNDER RALF RANGNICK?
Ralf Rangnick, Manchester United’s interim manager, is looking forward to Paul Pogba’s comeback from injury.
After experiencing a thigh issue while on international duty with France in November, the France international is back in shape.
He is expected to play against Middlesbrough in the Emirates FA Cup encounter at Old Trafford on Friday night after stepping up his training at Carrington.
WHERE WILL POGBA PLAY UNDER RALF RANGNICK?
For many fans, the issue is where Pogba will fit into Rangnick’s favoured formation and system.
“I think he’s definitely ready for tomorrow,” the manager told Stewart Gardner of the club media. “And, given Fred only returned yesterday with jet lag, since he played for Brazil, I think it’s pretty logical for me to let Paul play.” “To see how he’s doing and what level he’s capable of.”
“What I’ve seen in training is good, and now it’s up to him to perform on the big stage, in the major events we’re still competing in.” Like everyone else, I’m very interested about what he can provide to the squad and at what level he can play.
“Based on what I’ve seen so far in terms of his physique, physical presence, and technical assets, I believe his best position is centre midfield,” the German concluded. I don’t think of him as a winger.
“By stating so, I don’t want to imply that he can’t play that position.” However, we currently have a number of candidates for the winger position. I think his best position is centre midfield; whether that’s a no. 6 or an 8, I’ll have to see. So far, I haven’t seen him play. If you ask me right now, I’d say the eighth spot.”
Rangnick emphasised the amount of anticipation around the World Cup winner’s homecoming in a separate conversation with journalists.
“I’m excited to watch how Paul is doing since, like all the other players, he’s a new player for me,” he said. “He has the ability to demonstrate me, the team, the supporters, and everyone in England how fantastic and at what level he can play.” We’ll have to wait and see what he has to offer.”
On New Year’s Eve in 2016, Pogba scored a thrilling late winner against Boro at Old Trafford, giving United a 2-1 victory. Rangnick’s team will be aiming for a similar impact against the Championship club in Friday’s 20:00 GMT kick-off as they attempt to advance to the FA Cup round of five.
