One of the refreshing aspects of Ralf Rangnick’s management is that he is very up front about the situations of players at the club. There is no pretence, unlike with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who at times misled reporters and supporters over the likes of Chris Smalling and Alexis Sanchez.
Rangnick’s refreshing approach can be applied to Paul Pogba’s situation, with the Frenchman’s contract expiring.
There is no false pretence from Rangnick, he is not making any suggestions Pogba will renew his deal and giving supporters false hope.
Instead there is a sense of overdue clarity to his comments, letting everybody know where the player stands.
Quoted by Sky Sports, Rangnick said: “By the way, my contract as a manager is also expiring in the summer.
“So, for us, we have the same goal, we have the same ambition to be as successful as we can possibly be in the next three or four months. For me, it’s not a question if a player has an expiring contract. The question is how much does he still want to be a part of this group? How much does he still feel emotionally and physically on board?
“And as long as this is the case, why shouldn’t Paul Pogba now after two and half months of injury, being fully fit again now and he also wants to show up?
“He wants to show the fans of Manchester United, the board, the whole world what kind of player he can be, and even if it’s for only showing up for a new contract elsewhere, I mean, he will be highly motivated to do that. Why should I then not play him?”
Heading for the exit
Pogba has a chance to leave United as a free agent this summer for a second time, and Rangnick’s comments suggest it is highly likely he will do so.
To keep Pogba, United would have to offer a huge wage, which would cause more problems than it solves, with teammates likely to want theirs increased to match.
Pogba has failed to complete 30 Premier League games in five of his six seasons at United, and it makes no sense for United to saddle themselves with a gargantuan contract.
And it seems as though United are not being too forthcoming with a contract offer, if Pogba is to be believed. A statement released on his behalf to The Mail claims he has not had one.
“To clarify media reports, Paul has not been offered a new contract in recent months. Paul is fully focused on his recovery from injury with the aim of helping the team as soon as possible”, the statement read.
Rangnick’s comments tie in with the way this is all moving. Pogba is heading for the exit, and wants to give his all until he does. If he continues to perform on the pitch, then United fans will no doubt have some regret at how it has all worked out, but the midfielder can leave with positive feeling.
If he is somehow able to depart after a high of winning a trophy, then his exit will not be nearly as painful.
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