Paul Pogba

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba must stay at Juve
to become the best - Mandzukic

The France international will continue to grow in his midfield role as long as
he remains in place at the Italian giants, according to the club's 13-goal striker.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2016/05/08/23264782/-?

 
May 8, 2016

Paul Pogba is the best-placed player in world football to establish himself at the top of the game, but Mario Mandzukic insists he must remain with Juventus for the foreseeable future to reach that level.

The Frenchman has been integral to Juve winning a fifth straight Serie A title, four of which have come since his move from Manchester United in 2012.

Pogba has scored eight and assisted a league-high 12 from his 34 Serie A appearances, further fuelling rumours linking him with the likes of Barcelona and Manchester City, who were interested last season when he opted to stay in Turin.

Mandzukic has been hugely impressed by Pogba, although he urged his team-mate not to rush his next move.

"I have seen many great midfielders in my career, but nobody can compare to Pogba in terms of age, quality and potential," the Croatia international said to Sportske Novosti.

"He will become one of the best in the world, if not the best. I already told him, 'You have to stay in Turin for another couple of years to complete that step up in quality'."

Mandzukic also paid tribute to head coach Massimiliano Allegri's influence at Juventus after his debut season since moving from Atletico Madrid ended with the Scudetto.

"He helped me a great deal," added the striker. "He wanted me at Juve. He was close to me when I was not well and always supported me.

"If Diego Simeone is a gladiator, then Allegri is a man of character and his results speak for him.

"We have not celebrated the Scudetto properly as the season is not yet complete and we need to stay focused. We will get the chance to have a party on May 14 against Sampdoria.

"The club is organising something at the Juventus Stadium and I think it’s going to be wonderful."

[Socrates 8414]

 

Marchisio: ‘Pogba most complete’

http://www.football-italia.net/84121/marchisio-%E2%80%98pogba-most-complete%E2%80%99

 
May 10, 2016

Claudio Marchisio describes Paul Pogba as “the most complete” player he’s played with.

The Juventus midfielder has a new social biography coming out later this month, and giornalaccio rosa dello Sport released a preview.

“Pogba is the most complete [player I’ve played with],” Marchisio wrote.

“He’s tall, has good pace, he’s physically impressive and has unique technique for someone of his size.

“Plus he’s young, with huge margin for improvement. I remember his first day at Vinovo, I thought he was just a kid.

“Then he put his boots on and took to the pitch, and it was clear to all of us after 10 minutes that this lad had talent to spare.”

[Socrates 8414]

 

Agnelli clarifies Pogba comments

http://www.football-italia.net/84177/agnelli-clarifies-pogba-comments?

 
May 11, 2016

Juventus President Andrea Agnelli has clarified his comments about selling Paul Pogba.

The patron said several years ago that the club would not be able to turn down offers for the Frenchman, and was asked about those comments today at a Press conference.

“Thank you for the question, because I don’t often speak so I don’t get much opportunity to clarify,” Agnelli responded.

“What I said in the past is that, until September 1, the transfer window is open and there’s room for speculation and hypotheses on the transfer market.

“Even when the official windows are closed, I have to say that it’s always the transfer market.

“For my part, I have an awareness that we have a well set-up plan, with professionals like [general manager Giuseppe] Marotta, [sporting director Fabio] Paratici and [vice-President Pavel] Nedved.

“We have total understanding with Coach [Massimiliano] Allegri, and then I know that the team has international quality, and we know our objectives for next year.

“For everything related to the transfer market, the person to talk to is Marotta, not me.”

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba: ‘I take more risks’

http://www.football-italia.net/84235/pogba-%E2%80%98i-take-more-risks%E2%80%99?

 
May 12, 2016

Paul Pogba believes he “progressed” with Juventus this season, and reveals “I take more risks”.

The midfielder has 10 goals and 14 assists for the Bianconeri so far this season, helping his side to the Scudetto with the Coppa Italia final still to come.

“I’m happy with my season,” Pogba told RMC Sport.

“I think I’ve progressed, and that shows in my stats: my assists, my goals. I beat all my records this year, I’m quite proud.

“I take more risks, but that’s because there are fewer people to take them. Before there was Pirlo, Vidal, Tevez, I was surrounded.

“It took me a bit of time to take the game by the scruff of the neck and show more.

“Some experienced players like Khedira or Mandzukic joined us, but it’s true that I had to give a bit more to the team.

“Can I still progress? Of course, I’m always looking for perfection. But when I play, I don’t try to impress the crowd, I just play my football. I’ve always been that way.

“I was always told that I do it too much, I’m like that. Sometimes tricks will come off, other times not, but that’s me.

“This is Paul Pogba, that’s how I am. I’m still trying to progress though, to do these things at the right times. That’s where I have to improve.

“I’m still young, I’m looking for perfection and I hope to reach that level.

“I have a lot more games under my belt now. I’m starting to know when to keep the ball, when to change the pace - that kind of stuff. That’s what I’ve progressed in.

“This year I’ve had more responsibility, so that made me grow. I always need the advice of the Coach [Massimiliano Allegri].

“It’s down to me to progress, and I’m always trying to do it in the right way.”

Pogba was also asked about the national team, with France hosting the European Championships this summer.

“I don’t dream of being captain of the French national team one day, I dream of having a great career and winning a lot of caps.

“I want to break Thuram’s record, be a great player for France and win everything. My goal now is to win the Euros.

“I want to win it all this year, if we don’t win it’ll be a disappointment for everyone. But if we don’t win, maybe it’ll help us grow.

“It wouldn’t be the end of the world, but lets see - I want to win!”

Finally, the 23-year-old discussed his international and club teammate Patrice Evra, who he famously calls 'Uncle Pat'.

"He's my big brother," Pogba explained.

"When I call him 'Uncle Pat' it's a joke, but it's true. He's like an uncle to everyone. He helps us, he has so much experience and he offers advice.

"I consider him my brother."

[Socrates 8414]

 

Paul Pogba: Ronaldo, Messi qualities
can make me 'new midfielder'

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/france/story/2876011/paul-pogba-ronaldo-messi-qualities-can-make-me-new-midfielder

 
May 19, 2016

Juventus and France midfielder Paul Pogba has told ESPN FC that he wants to become the complete player by integrating aspects of all the best in history.

Asked what that would entail, Pogba told Simon Kuper, who conducted the interview for ESPN FC: "Doing everything: defend, attack, score, give assists, tackle, win back the ball. Be a leader on the field."

Pogba, 23, has won four Serie A titles in row, as well as a Coppa Italia, and reached the final of the 2015 Champions League since joining Juventus in 2012 on a free transfer from Manchester United.

The France midfielder is now viewed as one of the best young players in world football, but insists that he intends to become a "new midfielder."

But would that mean a box-to-box midfielder with a bit of Real Madrid and France legend Zidane Zidane added?

"Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Messi, everyone. Iniesta," he added. "I'm serious. All players rolled into one.

"From defensive midfielder to attacking midfielder to attacker. I want to take the qualities from everyone. I'd like to get to the level where I have everything: Vieira, Deschamps, Zidane, Ronaldinho, Henry, Ronaldo. It wouldn't be bad, that.

"I've already scored goals, given decisive passes, won back balls. It's really just about raising the level."

Pogba may already be viewed as one of the top players in the game, and is expected to take Euro 2016 by storm this summer, but the midfielder believes he has a lot of work to do yet.

"I don't think I am a great; I think I've done nothing," he said. "I've done nothing in soccer. I've won leagues, but I haven't won the Champions League, the World Cup, the Euros. Winning Euro 2016 in France, that wouldn't be bad. I want to work, to be a great, to win everything."

[Socrates 8414]

 

Report: Chelsea open talks with Paul Pogba over £80m move

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/transfer-talk/news/report-chelsea-open-paul-pogba-talks_273650.html

 
May 28, 2016

Chelsea have reportedly opened negotiations with Juventus over a potential £80m summer transfer for midfielder Paul Pogba.

The Frenchman, also heavily linked with Real Madrid of late, is said to be willing to join the Stamford Bridge club.

According to Get French Football News, Chelsea have been in constant contact with Juventus over a move that they are desperate to get over the line to mark Antonio Conte's arrival in style.

Pogba claimed last month that he was happy to remain in Turin for the long term, while the Italian giants also issued a hands-off warning by stressing that none of the club's title-winning players was up for sale.

However, the same report suggests that only one stumbling block now remains in place before a deal can be finalised - reaching an agreement over the France international's true valuation.

Pogba, who who departed Manchester United in 2012 when contract negotiations broke down, was thought to be close to joining Barcelona 12 months ago before the Catalan club's priorities turned elsewhere.

[Socrates 8414]

 

Transfer Profile: Could Pogba leave Juventus?

The 23-year-old midfielder remains the most coveted player in all of Europe and,
after a bright Serie A campaign, the Bianconeri can expect more interest this summer.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2016/05/28/24009602/-?

 
May 28, 2016

As the transfer window approaches, the top teams in Europe will all be looking to snap up the most proficient talents to add to their squad. No player on the continent has been as in-demand over the last two years as Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba and this summer is likely to see an increase in speculation surrounding the 23-year-old.

The France international was the subject of a massive offer from Barcelona last year but stayed for another season in Turin, while Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly still interested.

The Serie A side are determined to hold onto their talisman for at least one more year as they look to be competitive in the Champions League but, while Pogba has not spoken of any desire to leave, he may feel that his chances of realising his dream of winning the Ballon d'Or could be boosted by a move to a bigger club.

Either way, Juve can expect to receive a great deal of contact from Europe's elite concerning the player who scored eight goals and set up a further 12 in the another successful campaign in Serie A.

[Socrates 8414]

 

WATCH: Paul Pogba dropped an insane
assist for France against Cameroon

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/5/31/11817462/paul-pogba-france-cameroon-assist

 
May 31, 2016

As Juventus fans, we are used to seeing Paul Pogba doing crazy things on a regular basis. It's kinda expected at this point, mainly because the guy is just extremely talented. Yet even then, when Pogba pulls a brand new and absolute gem of a goal/assist/move/whatever out of his pocket, it's still something worthy of getting us sit there in amazement.

In France's 3-2 win over Cameroon on Monday, Pogba took things to the international level and dropped his latest thing of beauty that will instantly have your jaw dropped.

Watch. And then watch again. And then again. And then again. And then a...you get it by now. Just watch it as many times as you want.

Let's just analyze this Pogba sequence by Pogba sequence.

Pogba gets the pass from Kingsley Coman, makes the turn and is immediately greeted by an onrushing Cameroon player trying to get the ball from him.
Pogba makes a move to his right, then has to try and shed off said onrushing Cameroon player who is trying to get the ball with a decent amount of effort.
The Cameroon player bounces off Pogba, but still is close enough to guard him straight up in the same movement.
So Pogba shakes him.
Pogba then waits a beat, gets the ball onto his root foot, and bends in just a rediculous cross to Olivier Giroud, who finishes with a left-footed volley to give France a 2-1 lead over Cameroon.

Let me tell you one final tidbit about that sequence of events, okay? It took about six seconds to go from getting the pass to sending in that crazy cross that was right on the money. That's it. Six seconds. That's the length of a Vine video. And it's convenient because this assist has lit the damn Vine video circuit up like a Christmas tree. That's what Pogba does. We're used to it by now, but we're never going to get tired of seeing it.

This Pogba guy, he's pretty good.

[Socrates 8414]

 

Real Madrid may go for Pogba, says Perez

The 69-year-old says the Champions League winners have an obligation to improve
every season and could be tempted to make a summer move for the France international.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2016/05/31/24130842/-?

 
May 31, 2016

Real Madrid would be interested in signing Paul Pogba if the Juventus midfielder became available, Florentino Perez has confirmed.

Pogba was once again one of Juve's outstanding players as they won a fifth-straight Serie A title in 2015-16, and he will also be key to France's Euro 2016 hopes.

The 23-year-old has been linked with big-money moves to the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United and Manchester City, and Madrid president Perez has told Marca that the newly-crowned European champions would also be interested in his services.

"Pogba is a great player, but in midfield we have six great players, so I would not want to discuss speculation," Perez said.

"While he excites me, it is difficult to reach agreements if there are no termination clauses [in a player's contract].

"If a player such as him [Pogba] is available, we may go for him, but would have to reach an agreement.

"It is very difficult to bring someone [in]. I'll talk to [Zinedine] Zidane. Our obligation is to be much better every year. He will decide if we can get someone better than we have."

Madrid came within a whisker of signing Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea on transfer deadline day last September, only for the deal to be scuppered by issues with the paperwork.

And Perez is unsure whether Los Blancos will launch another bid for the Spain international, given the performances of current number one Keylor Navas.

"I am not the one who has to decide," Perez added when asked about De Gea. "I would say it is very difficult to manage two great players in that position."

The Madrid president also addressed the issue of players leaving the Spanish capital, insisting Casemiro and James Rodriguez remain in their plans.

"Casemiro has been a surprise to some, but I had no doubts," he said. "He has the qualities that will lead him to become one of the greats.

"James arrived late and started late. Others were playing well. He is one of the great players we have.

"We have not had any offers for anyone or talked about the future."

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba buys house in Barcelona

http://www.football-italia.net/85186/pogba-buys-house-barcelona?

 
May 31, 2016

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba purchased a house in Barcelona, prompting speculation of an imminent transfer.

The Frenchman could be one of the biggest transfers in world football this summer should he choose to leave Bianconeri, with the likes of Barcelona, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain among others willing to pay €100m for him.

The player caused worry among his Italian fans by purchasing a house in Barcelona, where the Blaugrana play.

However, a statement released by his real estate agency Proto Group Ltd claims that the purchase is not football-related.

“The purchase of a villa in Barcelona is in no way related to footballing matters,” said the company's director general, as reported by La Repubblica. “It is purely an estate investment.

“We wish to state this publicly because our client is a famous footballer and under great media attention in this period, so that this operation will certainly be reported by the Spanish newspapers, fuelling journalistic speculation that we do not wish to encourage.

“The same thing happened a few weeks ago with Lionel Messi, who purchased an attic in Paris through us, or Cristiano Ronaldo who bought an attic in New York.”

Nonetheless Pogba's story is bound to engender some speculation as it happened at the same time as his decision to stop paying rent on his house in Turin.

[Zino 1313]

 

 

Pogba buys house in Barcelona

http://www.football-italia.net/85186/pogba-buys-house-barcelona?

 

May 31, 2016

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba purchased a house in Barcelona, prompting speculation of an imminent transfer.

The Frenchman could be one of the biggest transfers in world football this summer should he choose to leave Bianconeri, with the likes of Barcelona, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain among others willing to pay €100m for him.

The player caused worry among his Italian fans by purchasing a house in Barcelona, where the Blaugrana play.

However, a statement released by his real estate agency Proto Group Ltd claims that the purchase is not football-related.

“The purchase of a villa in Barcelona is in no way related to footballing matters,” said the company's director general, as reported by La Repubblica. “It is purely an estate investment.

“We wish to state this publicly because our client is a famous footballer and under great media attention in this period, so that this operation will certainly be reported by the Spanish newspapers, fuelling journalistic speculation that we do not wish to encourage.

“The same thing happened a few weeks ago with Lionel Messi, who purchased an attic in Paris through us, or Cristiano Ronaldo who bought an attic in New York.”

Nonetheless Pogba's story is bound to engender some speculation as it happened at the same time as his decision to stop paying rent on his house in Turin.

 

 

 

[Socrates 8414]

I am going to translate this in english:

Alessio Grussu: You bought a house in Barcelona, don't you?

Paul don't go away, you must still stay many years with us.

Paul Labile Pogba: No house, they invented it.

[Socrates 8414]

 

 

Paul Pogba wants to be bigger than Messi

and Ronaldo - Juve chief Agnelli

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/story/2884301/paul-pogba-

wants-to-be-bigger-than-messi-and-ronaldo-juventus-andrea-agnelli

 
Jun 1, 2016

Juventus president Andrea Agnelli says that "superhero" midfielder Paul Pogba wants to become even bigger than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Agnelli told Sky Sport that the Frenchman, who is set to star for his country at Euro 2016 this summer, is hugely important to the Italian champions, while adding that he has high hopes for the future of 22-year-old Argentina striker Paulo Dybala.

"What Pogba really is, is demonstrated by the way he is used by Adidas, who continuously place him ahead of so many other players," Agnelli said. "Dybala was Pogba two or three years ago; now children look up to him. Adidas themselves firmly believe in him [Pogba]; he wants to become an even bigger brand than Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo."

"We want to work with someone who is very solid in terms of his own image -- in that respect, we lost substantial players in [Carlos] Tevez or [Andrea] Pirlo. Especially in the farthest markets, you need a superhero to bring fans closer to the brand; no-one knew Dybala, we had to create a superhero. Pogba is the only one we have right now."

While the Turin-based club are keen to keep hold of Pogba this summer, Agnelli also admitted that other factors could determine whether they are forced to sell him this summer, or further down the line.

"In terms of selling or not selling, there is so much else at stake: market dynamics, the will of the players...If they want to leave, they leave," he added. "I'm thinking of [Christian] Vieri here -- we didn't want to sell him, Agnelli phoned [Luciano] Moggi to ask him not to sell. The morning after, he had been sold.

"Atletico Madrid made him an offer, we received a suitable sum, and the deal was done. Such deals do not last months, if there's an opportunity you either take it or you don't take it; it's a decision taken in seven or eight hours."

[Socrates 8414]

 

Zidane wants Pogba at Madrid,

but unsure on Morata return

 

Los Blancos president Florentino Perez suggested they could make a move for the France midfielder

and the coach has admitted he is an admirer of the highly-coveted player.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2016/06/01/24175252/-?

 
Jun 1, 2016

Zinedine Zidane has insisted any club would want a player of Paul Pogba's quality in their ranks amid increased speculation linking the Juventus midfielder to a move to Real Madrid.

Pogba joined the Turin giants from Manchester United in 2012 and quickly established himself as a key member of the first team, going on to win four straight scudetti.

Madrid president Florentino Perez this week admitted the club could attempt to sign the Frenchman, who denied reports he had bought a house in Catalonia amid interest from Barcelona, if he becomes available ahead of next season.

And former Juve midfielder Zidane is in no doubt that Pogba would be a suitable player for the club from the Spanish capital.

"He is a great player, every team would want to have him," Zidane said in Turin.

"But he is a Juventus player and we have to respect that."

Another Juve player to be linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu is former Madrid striker Alvaro Morata.

The European champions included a buy-back option when selling the Spain international in 2014, but Zidane is unsure if a transfer will take place in the coming months.

"He has grown a lot in Italy," he said. "I don't know what will happen, but he did very well at Juventus.

"It is normal that they still want to keep him for another year, so we will see what happens.

"It's not the time to talk about it yet."

[Socrates 8414]

 

POGBA HOPES FRANCE CAPITALISE ON EURO 2016 PRESSURE

The home nation will get this summer's continental tournament underway against Romania

on June 10, and the Juventus midfielder wants Le Bleus to enjoy the hosting experience.

 

http://www.goal.com/euro2016/en/article/pogba-hopes-france-capitalise-on-euro-2016-pressure/1g6fp6k79p1a21qmqyvaeqohr7

 
Jun 2, 2016

France star Paul Pogba admits his nation are under more pressure as Euro 2016 hosts, but believes they have a good chance of succeeding.

Didier Deschamps' men have been drawn with Romania, Albania and Switzerland in Group A for the tournament, which starts on June 10.

Juventus star Pogba said hosting could prove tricky for France, but hopes they thrive in their home environment.

"It's a pressure, but at the same time, it's a pure joy to be able to play in front of our own people. That's our strength this time," he told The Times of India.

"It would be great to entertain them with our performances."

France are among the favourites to win the European Championship, with Pogba needed to lead the way.

The 23-year-old believes his side are capable, saying: "We have a very good chance of winning the tournament.

"We have a good side, experienced but young and hungry."

Pogba hopes Deschamps, a European Championship and World Cup winner as a player, can make a difference.

He said the former Juventus midfielder has an aura that inspires the national team.

"What he always says is to focus on the game and specific situations. He never wants us to worry about factors off the field," Pogba said.

"He has been through these situations and would share his experiences with us, as he always does.

"When you have such a legend in the dressing room, you feel very comfortable."

[Socrates 8414]

 

Benzema Backs Juventus Midfielder

To Become One Of The Greats

 

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/06/benzema-backs-juventus-midfielder-to-become-one-of-the-greats/?

 
Jun 3, 2016

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has earned praise from Real Madrid striker and French teammate Karim Benzema, who believes that the 23-year-old is a great player.

The former Manchester United player has come of age since arriving in Turin in 2012 and in light of the rumours linking him with a move to Real Madrid, his compatriot has said that Pogba can become a great player despite the depth present in the Los Blancos midfield.

“He is a great player,” Benzema told Marca. “He has done excellent things at Juve but at Real it is another matter altogether.

“He is still an excellent player though. At Madrid there are great players and he should face great competition in midfield but it is normal.

“It would not be easy but he can be one of the greats, I am sure of it.”

Pogba has been selected to represent France at the 2016 European Championship whereas Benzema did not make the final cut.

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba: ‘Not sure I’m a leader’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/85504/pogba-‘not-sure-i’m-leader’

 
Jun 7, 2016

Paul Pogba isn’t sure he’s “a leader” but “I can talk on the pitch whether or not I’m an experienced player”.

The France and Juventus midfielder is one of the most sought-after players in Europe, and will play for Les Bleus at Euro 2016 on home soil.

“I think the fans have confidence in us,” Pogba told RMC Sport when asked about the pressure on France.

“They can bring good things to the team, both on and off the pitch. When I wear this shirt I know there are a lot of people behind me, watching me, and I don’t want to disappoint them.

“I try to help the team as much as possible. I can talk on the pitch, whether or not I’m an experience player.

“Take Patrice Evra, for example, I can tell him what he could to better for the good of the team. Whether I’m a leader or not a leader… I’m not sure.

“I know that I’ll just stay myself all the time. I don’t know if I’m a leader like people say, I’m just me - Paul.”

[Socrates 8414]

 

Man Utd 'in pole' for Pogba?

 

http://www.football-italia.net/85538/man-utd-pole-pogba

 
Jun 8, 2016

Jose Mourinho told Manchester United that their transfer priority must be Juventus' Paul Pogba, say reports.

The French midfielder is craved by just about every great club in Europe, but the Red Devils may have an advantage.

According to The Independent, incoming manager Mourinho specifically requested for Pogba to be placed at the top of the list of prospective signings.

The 'gold nugget of French football' is valued at €100m, though Manchester United may be able to get a better deal if they throw in some players that are of interest to Juventus, such as Matteo Darmian and Juan Mata.

[Socrates 8414]

 

Juventus star Paul Pogba exclusive

interview: 'I want to become a legend'

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/france/478/blog/post/2878430/paul-pogba-exclusive-

interview-talks-france-european-championships-and-his-future-at-juventus

 
Jun 8, 2016

Paul Pogba can expect to be the most watched player at the European Championship. Though only 23, the central midfielder will be the key man for host France, especially now that Karim Benzema has been left off the squad after a sordid scandal.

The world of soccer also wants to know what Pogba will do after the Euros: stay at Juventus, or jump to one of Europe's giant clubs, possibly for a record transfer fee. The man from the Parisian suburbs has a lot on his mind, but he made time for ESPN at Juve's training ground at Vinovo outside Turin.

ESPN: What are your childhood memories of watching France in big tournaments?

PP: The World Cup 1998. I was young, but I remember the final: two goals by [Zinedine] Zidane, one by [Emmanuel] Petit. These are beautiful memories. I hope to reproduce them for today's children.

ESPN: In your teens, you spent three years at Manchester United. What did you learn there alongside players such as Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs?

PP: With them you train to the end, up to perfection, because Paul Scholes -- despite his age -- was still there at the end of practice, hitting long passes, shots. He didn't miss one. When you're there, you have to adapt fast. I like that -- always challenges.

ESPN: Aged 19, you told Sir Alex Ferguson you were leaving United for Juventus. Did that take courage?

PP: He's a coach I respect a lot. But he's a human. I'm someone who says what he thinks. Whether it's Ferguson or [President Barack] Obama, I'll tell him. Ferguson came to my place. We talked. It did make me think. He wanted to keep me, but I'd made my decision to leave.

ESPN: How different did you find Juventus from English soccer?

PP: My first training session here, I lost three kilos. Here they really work physically and tactically. In England it's more explosive, it doesn't stop, but tactically it's not the same as in Italy. And in Italy, training sessions are longer.

ESPN: Juve's great man when you arrived was Andrea Pirlo. You're always hungry to learn. What did you learn from him?

PP: His calmness, his confidence. He'd miss a pass and it didn't matter -- he was sure he'd succeed with the next one. ... He could decide matches. I'd like to be as decisive.

Before he got the ball, he knew who he would give it to -- Pirlo, Paul Scholes, they knew how to read the game. I manage that from time to time [laughs]. Because I'm fairly big, I like to use my body. So I'll control the ball, even when there's a player on me, and then I'll pass. They are smaller, so they'll play faster so as not to be touched.

ESPN: Now Pavel Nedved, the former great midfielder who is Juve's vice chairman, gives you advice.

PP: He's always there at training. He advises me to do more in training, to work on my free kicks, penalties -- because you want to score -- to work on my left foot.

ESPN: You've said you want to create, or be, the new midfielder. What does "the new midfielder" mean?

PP: Doing everything: defend, attack, score, give assists, tackle, win back the ball. Be a leader on the field.

ESPN: A box-to-box midfielder, with a bit of Zidane added?

PP: [laughs] Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Messi, everyone. Iniesta.

ESPN: Really? You're serious?

PP: I'm serious. All players rolled into one: from defensive midfielder to attacking midfielder to attacker. I want to take the qualities from everyone. I'd like to get to the level where I have everything: Vieira, Deschamps, Zidane, Ronaldinho, Henry, Ronaldo. It wouldn't be bad, that. I've already scored goals, given decisive passes, won back balls. It's really just about raising the level.

ESPN: Despite your height you haven't scored many headers.

PP: I think it's because I'm big. They mark me too much. I don't like it when they hold me.

ESPN: Already you're a great. You've won four Italian league titles, but you think you're only at 60 percent?

PP: I don't think I am a great. I think I've done nothing. I've done nothing in soccer. I've won leagues, but I haven't won the Champions League, the World Cup, the Euro. Winning the Euro in France, that wouldn't be bad.

ESPN: You have extraordinary ambitions.

PP: That's my strength. I want to work, to be a great, to win everything.

ESPN: How do you want people to remember you in 30 years?

PP: By watching YouTube, like they do with Maradona and Pele. When I say I want to become a legend, some people say it's pretentious. For me, it's a challenge. My desire, a dream. I'm not saying I'll get there, but it's what I want.

ESPN: You play in a league that isn't the best in Europe. That's a problem.

PP: Maybe it's not the best league, but it's the hardest. Playing against an Italian team is harder than all the other leagues. The Italians won't score lots of goals, but they won't concede many, either.

Paul Pogba joined Juventus from Man United when his contract expired.

ESPN: Your role with Juventus is different than with France.

PP: With Juve I'm more attacking. The coach of France [Didier Deschamps] prefers that I play deeper. It is a bit strange adapting in the national team, but after two, three training sessions it goes fine.

ESPN: When you began playing for France, you felt during games in Paris as if you were playing away.

PP: There was a time when I did. When Portugal came, there were more Portuguese in the stadium than French people. But now the fans have really been behind us for a while. We feel we are in France, at home.

ESPN: Sambou Tati, who coached you in childhood, says that in the last 10 years you have learned to play with "simplicity." Do you agree?

PP: For me, playing simply is dribbling. For me, playing one or two touches is harder. Playing simply is the most difficult thing.

ESPN: Coaches still tell you to play more simply.

PP: They should tell me, "Play complicated," then I'll play simply. [Laughs]

ESPN: Your visit to relatives in Guinea in Africa five years ago changed you.

PP: I saw how people suffered. That helped me realise the luck we have in Europe, and to think more about children, the poor, who don't have enough to eat or water to drink.

ESPN: Maybe soccer players can get spoiled.

PP: Not just soccer players -- normal people. A normal person here can drink water, can waste water.

ESPN: How did you experience Nov. 13 at the Stade de France?

PP: What was that?

ESPN: The night of France-Germany and the terrorist attacks on Paris, last year.

PP: It's a sadness for everyone. But you can't live with that because otherwise you won't live anymore. We won't forget the people who left us, but even so, we advance.

ESPN: Everyone wants to know whether you will leave Juventus this summer. When and how will you decide?

PP: You tell me. I'm asking you.

ESPN: If I were you, I'd have a pretty good idea already.

PP: Really? I'm thinking about the match to come. Then there's the Euros, and after that the holidays.

 

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba €120m: true or false?

http://www.football-italia.net/85585/pogba-€120m-true-or-false?

 
Jun 9, 2016

Real Madrid apparently offered €120m for Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba, but sources disagree on whether the offer is true or not.

The Merengues are reportedly looking to set up a deal that will include €50m in cash along with the ownership of Alvaro Morata and the loan of Mateo Kovacic, bringing the total value of the operation to €120m.

The story was originally forwarded by Mediaset Premium, but Sky Sports Italia did not corroborate it.

Today's edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport considers the story plausible, saying that President Florentino Perez could very well make such an offer, but they do not confirm that such an offer has been made.

Juventus-focused paper Tuttosport dedicate their front page and top stories to the Miralem Pjanic affair with Roma, and do not cover the €120m Pogba offer.

The Old Lady's sporting director Beppe Marotta is due to fly out to Madrid next week and discuss Pogba, Morata and Kovacic, along with other potential deals, with the Spanish club.

[Socrates 8414]

 

Beppe Marotta confirms — again — that Paul Pogba isn't leaving Juventus this summer

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/6/9/11893122/beppe-marotta

-confirms-again-that-paul-pogba-isnt-leaving-juventus

 
Jun 9, 2016

There are two things that have been constant from the last summer transfer window to the one that is about to open its doors in full next month. For one, there are Paul Pogba transfer rumors — and a lot of them. Second, there is the narrative that Pogba, no matter what is said or reported, is going to be leaving Juventus for a whole lotta money.

That's just what the kind of world we're living in now.

Like it or not, there will be Pogba exit rumors at every turn. Those turns can be stupid and ones we obviously want to steer clear of, but this is how we must cope with things. (By mocking them!)

And just like almost every other time before, Juventus director general Beppe Marotta has stood firm about his stance regarding Pogba's future at Juventus beyond this transfer rumor-filled summer of 2016.

 

 Follow

Ivan Zazzaroni 

 

✔@zazzatweet

Marotta un minuto fa: "Pogba via? Non esiste, lo teniamo".#RaiEuro2016

11:59 AM - 9 Jun 2016

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   3232 Retweets
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Yes, but in English, please?

 

 Follow

hash @hashim0307

Juve CEO Marotta: "Pogba leaving? Not happening. We'll keep him"

12:36 PM - 9 Jun 2016

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   6666 Retweets
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Yes, there it is. Thank you very much.

Pogba's situation is unique because of his insane amount of talent and the transfer fee that is going to be forked over whenever he does he out to another club. But it's not exactly unique in the sense that Juventus — especially Marotta over the last 12 months or so — has maintained its stance that the only way Pogba leaves the club is if he wants to leave the club. That was the case with Arturo Vidal last summer, and that has been the case for others over the last few years.

As far as we know, Pogba is perfectly happy at Juventus. I mean, watch the guy whenever he's shown with a teammate after a goal or doing things you would expect a 23-year-old to do on snapchat while in the locker room after a game. Every public indication we have is that Pogba is perfectly good right where he is. And seeing as Juve could very well make their squad for next season even stronger within the next few weeks, there should be even more motivation to stay right where he is.

[Socrates 8414]

 

Man United make Paul Pogba contact,

player waiting on Real Madrid - sources

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/story/2889180/man-united-make-paul-pogba

-contact-but-juventus-star-waiting-on-real-madrid-sources

 
Jun 9, 2016

Manchester United have made contact over a deal for Paul Pogba but the Juventus midfielder is waiting to see if Real Madrid make a move, multiple sources have told ESPN FC.

Club sources said United have made contact with both Juve and Pogba's agent, Mino Raiola, with regard to the 23-year-old, who left Old Trafford in acrimonious circumstances in 2012.

Jose Mourinho has identified central midfield as a priority area and is alsocontinuing with his pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic, but United sources said he has becoming increasingly enthusiastic about the idea of buying Pogba.

The prospective purchase has been discussed with super-agent Raiola along with the deal for another of his clients, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who is expected to sign for United this summer.

United had already been in contact with Juventus due to a long-standing interest in the France international and have gone as far as discussing a potential fee that is likely to be more than £65 million.

Paul Pogba has excelled at Juventus since arriving on a Bosman transfer in 2012.

However, sources close to both United and the player say that he is waiting to see what Real Madrid do, as Barcelona's lack of interest means the 2016 Champions League winners have become his first preference.

Madrid president Florentino Perez is also a huge fan of Pogba and told Marca last month that he considers him a "great player," although he added: "I don't want to talk about him, but I will say that in midfield we have six great players."

United hope that they can secure an agreement by offering Juan Mata as part of a potential deal with Juventus, although sources say it is possible that the Spain international could join the Italian champions regardless of whether the Pogba negotiations are successful.

Mourinho sold Mata when in charge at Chelsea and a source close to the club confirmed to ESPN FC last month that he would be open to selling the midfielder this summer.

Pogba remained coy on his plans in an exclusive interview with ESPN FC this week, saying he is not thinking about his future beyond the European Championship with France.

"I'm thinking about the match to come," he said. "Then there's the Euros, and after that the holidays."

[Socrates 8414]

 

WATCH: Paul Pogba's latest

adidas commercial is released

He's gone big time, folks. He now has his own commercial.

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/6/10/11898510/paul-pogba-adidas-commercial

 
Jun 10, 2016

With Paul Pogba signing with adidas earlier this year, this seemed inevitable. At the age of 23, Pogba is becoming one of the best players in the world, and knowing how big of a personality the guy has, probably one of the most marketable ones, too. That's simple to figure out.

And, with the European Championships set to take place in his home country of France, the attention is going be focused on the Juventus midfielder exponentially. That's why it makes sense why adidas rolled out Pogba's first-ever adidas commercial centered solely around Juventus' No. 10, one that I'm pretty sure you will be seeing a lot of during the next couple weeks of games no matter who is actually playing in them.

There's a lot going on here. But then again, it's Pogba, so we shouldn't be surprised.

• Pogba flying through the air to control a ball.
• Pogbe showing off a new haircut.
• Pogba dancing.
• Pogba in a flashy outfit and sunglasses flush with gold all over.
• #POGBOOM
• Pogba not lacking for any kind of personality whatsoever.

It's 67 seconds of ultimate Pogba, and it's all wonderful. Every single second of it.

If I had to choose between reading about all of these Pogba-related transfer rumors or watching this commercial about 100 times in a row, the decision is pretty simple. I like Pogba being Pogba, and I don't think I will ever tire of that.

Like dude at the beginning of the video said, "YOU'RE PAUL POGBA."

It must be nice to be Paul Pogba, but you probably knew that already.

 

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba: ‘Price tag doesn’t bother me’

http://www.football-italia.net/85640/pogba-‘price-tag-doesn’t-bother-me’

 
Jun 10, 2016

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba insists talk of his price tag “does not affect me”.

The 23-year-old is one of the best young players in Europe, and there has been talk Real Madrid could pay up to €120m to sign him this summer.

With Euro 2016 being held in his native France this summer, the Bleus star was asked if he feels under more pressure to deliver with such figures being mentioned.

“It’s normal that the public expect a lot,” Pogba admitted.

“Because when they hear of me, what do they hear? The prices! Paul Pogba is worth so much, he costs this amount etc…

“People who don’t really know football will therefore say ‘ah, but a player who costs that much: why doesn’t he score more?’.

“They won’t think about the fact I’m a midfielder, it’s just viewed through the prism of money. It doesn’t affect me though.

“I’m not someone who likes to talk to the media. If they want to talk about me though, good or bad, they will. It doesn’t bother me.”

Pogba has been open about his desire to be the best player in the world, could that come across as arrogant?

“Being the best means not being like anyone else. When I do something, I like to set myself apart from the others and I don’t like to lose.

“I hate being number two, whether that’s cards, Playstation or football - I want to reach the summit.

“People have already told me that this could be interpreted as arrogance, but it’s not like that.

“It’s like when I told my teachers at school that I wanted to become a professional football, that wasn’t arrogance. That was desire, determination. I was going to do everything to get there.

“Right now I am nothing and I’ve done nothing, I have to work. I know I’ll get things wrong - I’ll miss dribbles, passes, shots.

“I’ll warn your right now, I won’t score three goals per game - but what I do, I’ll do thoroughly.

“What do I lack compared to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo? Scoring goals like them!

“I’m also missing trophies, for sure, as well as being even more powerful in games, being more decisive.

“Messi, Ronaldo… they score against everyone. Not for one year, not for two years, but for an entire career.”

 

[Socrates 8414]

 

Pogba: ‘I learned from Pirlo’

http://www.football-italia.net/85645/pogba-‘i-learned-pirlo’

 
Jun 10, 2016

Paul Pogba admits he learned from Juventus teammate Andrea Pirlo - “he had that composure”.

The Italian spent three seasons with Pogba in Turin, before leaving last summer to join MLS side New York City FC.

“During a match, it’s important to remain consistent,” Pogba told L’Équipe.

“That’s the case with the best players. I’m thinking, for example, of Andrea Pirlo. He stayed at the top so long because he had that consistency.

“He’s a player I watched a lot. He was almost too comfortable, too confident. In the 88th-minute of a highly-charged match, he had that composure.

“He’d give you a key pass or strike it in beautifully from distance. He always knew the right thing to do, always something great. He had such inner confidence.

“Every player has his own personality. I’m a player who tries a lot. If I get something wrong, I’ll try again. Maybe Pirlo played a little simpler, whereas I play hard from the first minute to the last.

“Other role models? I look at every player - dribblers, goalscorers… There’s Yaya Toure and Abou Diaby, who are big but also technical on the ball and score goals.

“I also like Andres Iniesta, and I try to watch players like [Claude] Makelele. Anything I can take from a player, I take.”

Juventus retained the Scudetto this season, despite a poor start, and Pogba was asked about his own improvement.

“It was a marthon! It’s true that we started badly, collectively. When things are going wrong with the group, it’s hard for a player to stand out.

“Then as we slowly started to find our stride, I started to score. Around November, December I started to feel better physically.”

Finally, the midfielder was asked whether his Bianconeri Coaches, Antonio Conte then Max Allegri, have been hard on him.

“I’ve always had Coaches who pushed me to do better,” Pogba noted.

“It’s true that sometimes I’ll relax, that’s how it is. Then there are these Coaches who re-motivate you, give you a slap round the back of the head, and yes, that wakes me up.

“I have always been asked to play simple. Always! At first I was a striker, then an attacking midfielder and then a defensive midfielder.

“Each time I was told to release the ball more quickly, play it more simple.

“Did it work? Yes, yes it worked. Little by little, I’ve changed. Before, even if I was further up the pitch I held on to the ball a lot more.

“Keeping the ball is good, when you’re young you like, you get to make more dribbles. Ok, if you go on your own and you score, no-one can fault you.

“But if you don’t help the team it’s useless. At a high level, it’s about being effective. And it’s true, already I want the ball less…

“Maybe people think I play to the public or the people in the stadium, but I don’t, I play for me. I’ve always liked tricks, but they’re not enough on their own.”