Pogba made his Old Trafford return in a 2-0 win over Southampton on Friday night.
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba in action with Southampton’s Jordy Clasie
New signing Paul Pogba was a key figure as Manchester United won 2-0 against Southampton to assert their place at the top of the Premier League table.
A Zlatan Ibrahimovic brace was ultimately the difference between the sides in terms of goals but Pogba was a controlling force in the middle of the park.
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba in action with Southampton’s Nathan Redmond
With the most passes, interceptions, recoveries, duels won and touches of any United player, the 23-year-old displayed his ability to impact a game without necessarily grabbing all of the headlines.
| Position | Vs | Passing Accuracy | Won Tackle | Interception Won | Ball Recovery | Touches | Ontarget Scoring Att | Total Pass | Duel Won | Mins Played | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Pogba | MF | Southampton | 83% | 1 | 5 | 13 | 103 | 1 | 71 | 11 | 90 |
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba shoots at goal
Despite failing to get on the scoresheet, the French international did come close just after the hour mark as he connected with Juan Mata’s corner only to see his headed effort sail narrowly over the Saints’ crossbar.
Overall, it may not have been the £89m performance people were looking for but it was certainly a positive start that will leave United fans excited of what is to come.
Pogba clearly has the class and talent to be a huge figure in United’s midfield, and with Jose Mourinho’s side now boasting two genuine superstars in the Frenchman and Ibrahimovic, a genuine title challenge could be on the cards.
Next up for United is a trip to newly-promoted Hull City next Saturday.
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba
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