The record-breaking transfer window at the start of the current season for Jose Mourinho should be termed as a success as the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Eric Bailly have all played important roles in United’s successful first season under the Portuguese. But one player who has attracted a lot of criticism for his performances this season is French international Paul Pogba.
Standing as the most expensive signing in the history of the game, the 24-year old failed to carry the form from his days in Turin to Old Trafford and has not been able to find consistency this season. He has been improving by game by game but it is widely believed that his performances were affected by the personnel around him at his new club.
Jose Mourinho has used the likes of Ander Herrera, Marouane Fellaini, and Michael Carrick extensively alongside Pogba in the midfield but none of them have been able to help the 24-year old realise his potential. Carrick has been the best second fiddle to Pogba, but at 35, he might not stay at the club for long. Hence, Mourinho would be searching for star midfielders who he can add to the squad this summer. The most interesting name on the radar has been Italian sensation Marco Verratti.
One of the best players in this position at the moment, Verratti is currently one of the most important players for Unai Emery at the Parc de Princes and has been linked with an exit. Mourinho is ready to spend big this summer yet again and here is why he should go all out for the PSG man to bring him alongside Pogba next season.
Verratti And Pogba Would Complement Each Other
Known for his exceptional passing and dribbling abilities, Verratti is a modern midfielder who loves to surge forward with every chance he gets. However, he is one of the most disciplined players in his position and this can make Pogba much more effective next season. Verratti is a midfield engine who will cover more than his share of the ground every game and this will free Pogba of his defensive duties to an extent. Mourinho needs all his players to be aware of their defensive duties and though Pogba is ready to put in the hard yards, he needs a technically gifted player like Verratti to be effective.
The manager wants to play a 4-2-3-1 system which will mean that Pogba should be a part of a two man midfield. Hence, he will need a top class player who can not only cover for him at the back but also support him while going forward for attack.
The Verdict
The Italian has 2 goals and 6 assists in all competitions this season compared to the 7 goals and 4 assists of Pogba and if Mourinho can get them to play together in the same team, it will add incredible creativity to the squad. It is a dream midfield partnership which is not too far away and Mourinho should do all he can to land the 24-year old Italian this summer.