Manchester United now have a huge game against RB Leipzig. It is the type of match which can make or break careers.
It is a fascinating one particularly where Paul Pogba is concerned.
Pogba has recently lost his place in the United XI. He has struggled a bit with injury too, but he has not been picked to start a game since he gave a penalty away against Arsenal.
United have big decisions to make ahead of next week’s showdown with RB Leipzig in Germany. The midfield is where the game will be won and lost.
It feels like the debate over Pogba’s United career is building towards this critical moment.
Can Pogba get back in favour?
Fred is suspended for this fixture, and even with one less player available, United’s midfield is still a puzzle.
United lined up with a midfield four at home to Leipzig. United used a three in both games with PSG.
Pogba started against the Germans at Old Trafford, and as a big game player, he will expect to be selected away at Leipzig.
The problem is United have such a variety of options. Pogba and Matic have had mixed success in the past, while Donny van de Beek has made a real case for inclusion over the past two games.
Scott McTominay acquitted himself well against PSG too. United cannot play all four of Matic, Pogba, Van de Beek and McTominay without leaving out Bruno Fernandes.
If United go with a midfield three, of which Fernandes will be one, then Solskjaer has to pick two players from four. That would give Pogba just a 50 per cent chance of starting.
There is just one game before the Leipzig game for Pogba to earn his way into the team, against West Ham this weekend. The same selection dilemma exists, but with Fred too. United could well select the Brazilian as a way of managing the squad, as he will be unavailable to feature in Germany.
Knock-on effect of defeat
If Pogba is left out in Germany then it will send a strong signal over his future, that he is no longer considered an essential part of the squad.
It has been looking that way over the past few weeks, but if he is recalled, it will show that amid all the concern about form, Solskjaer will still pick him when it really counts.
A decision like this will factor into Pogba’s decision whether to sign a new contract or not – if his mind is not already made up.
The second aspect in play here is whether United qualify for the knockout stages or not.
Even if he plays all 90 minutes and is unable to affect the result, Pogba will take into account United’s failure to reach the knockout phases into his planning over his future.
Pogba wants to star in the Champions League. He has never been past the quarter-finals for United. If this team fall short this season, it will underline any possible desire he has to move on.
That may not be a bad thing for United. The club’s supporters no longer hang on his decision. The very fact he may not be able to get into the team for a crucial game speaks volumes.
Either way it feels like we are reaching a critical point. If Pogba is selected and proves to be the match winner, it will win his doubters over.
Pogba will feel the love from fans, who will appreciate him for stepping up a moment the team needs him most.
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