Paul Pogba says playing with Neymar would be ‘a pleasure’

Watching these two link up would be special

Things have not quite gone to plan since Pogba returned to Manchester United. A spectacular marketing campaign featuring a #Pogback hashtag, a Stormzy music video and a unique emoji for the player helped to fan the flames of hype after his £89m transfer from Juventus was concluded, but his fluctuating form has not justified the fee.

Of course, there are several factors at play here. José Mourinho’s firm man management style has differing results depending on the player from whom he is seeking a reaction. Also, Pogba’s desire to roam the pitch freely and take risks, juxtaposed with Mourinho’s insistence that his central midfielders should be disciplined and leave the attacking to the front four, has created a dilemma.

So what is the solution? Eventually one party will probably have to give in. Either Mourinho will have to leave the club or Pogba will. There doesn’t seem to be an alternative option that pleases everyone and brings the best out of Paul Pogba. So, if the midfielder were to leave, where could he go? Who could afford him, who doesn’t really care for FFP? Paris-Saint Germain?

Seeing Pogba link up with Neymar down PSG’s left side would certainly be worth watching, and funnily enough the Frenchman has hinted at the pair playing together in the future.

Speaking to TYC Sports, and Argentine TV channel, Pogba recalls Neymar singing his praises in an interview with La Liga’s website: “I remember [what he said]. I really like him, too,” the Manchester United star said.

“He is truly the definition of joy on the pitch. He also has this.

“I know that in Brazil, football is everything. It’s life. Everyone plays football in Brazil. When I see him play on the pitch and enjoying himself, with his technique, his agility … I love to watch him play.”

Pogba is full of admiration for Neymar’s unique, Brazilian style of play and seems keen on playing with him in the future.

“When you say Neymar anywhere in the world, everyone knows who he is and what he does. For me, it would be a pleasure to play with him one day.”

In fairness, who wouldn’t want to play with Neymar? Take away the political problems he brings to a dressing room and he is the ideal teammate; a creator and goalscorer who steps up in the big moments.