Manchester United are linked with a lot of midfielders this summer, but only one has claimed that he used to be called ‘mini Pogba’.
Whatever you say about Paul Pogba’s time at Man Utd, and not much of what you say will be positive, even his ardent rivals won’t argue about his natural talent.
The Frenchman has often been named as the biggest “what if” story at Man Utd because he didn’t quite live up to his potential at Old Trafford.
If Man Utd fans could run it back with a more professional and driven version of that same player, they gladly would. They might just have the chance to in the summer now!
Did Manchester United make a mistake signing Paul Pogba in 2016?
Aurelien Tchouameni used to be ‘mini Pogba’
Of all the names linked to Man Utd this summer, Aurelien Tchouameni is the one with the highest pedigree at the elite level.
The Real Madrid ace will truly be a statement of intent if United manage to get him because he’s the whole package, and at the peak of his powers.
The final approval of his quality has been given by the player himself, in front of Pogba no less, as he revealed that he used to be called “mini Pogba” when he was younger.
He said [via The Bridge]: “There’s a long story about that. When I was younger, we are maybe about the same height, about the same build, two Black guys.
“You start, and people immediately compare you. Besides, as I said, Paul was the star of the moment. So as soon as someone has a similar build to him, immediately they’ll be compared to him, you see.
“So, when I was a youth player in Bordeaux, people kind of called me mini-Pogba and stuff, and I was so happy! I was thrilled, you know!”
Tchouameni’s profile is perfect for United
The point Tchouameni makes is pertinent, but the actual playing style comparison between Pogba and Tchouameni doesn’t have much ground in reality.
How much should Man Utd pay to sign Aurelien Tchouameni? What would you consider a fair fee?
Do you think he would be the right fit for Man Utd?
Pogba was simply a generational talent who could do things with the football that a physical specimen like him shouldn’t have been capable of.
However, that came at the cost of effort off the ball and just a generally relaxed attitude towards the game.
Tchouameni, in comparison, is more functional than flashy in his playing style, but that is exactly what United’s midfield needs right now.
An all-action athletic monster who can hold his own with the ball is the ideal partner for Kobbie Mainoo, and Tchouameni’s injury record and versatility help as well.
He might have been called ‘mini Pogba’ earlier, but United would be delighted if they got the current version instead.
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