Manchester United defeated Southampton 2-0 at Old Trafford.
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba reacts
Manchester United signing Paul Pogba made more successful take-ons than any other Premier League player at the weekend as his side defeated Southampton 2-0 at Old Trafford.
The France international spectacularly re-joined United for a club record fee this summer – a deal which dominated the headlines and caused plenty of debate among supporters and pundits alike.
Is Pogba really worth the money which United paid for him? Well, if his debut is anything to go by, perhaps after all he is as the powerful midfield was instrumental in the Red Devils’ victory.
Manchester United’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba
Fellow signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic notched twice and deservedly earned the plaudits for a superb display, yet it was Pogba who was the outstanding performer with Southampton having no answer to his powerful runs.
| Team | Successful take-ons | Mins Played | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Pogba | Man Utd | 9 | 90 |
| Wilfried Zaha | C. Palace | 7 | 90 |
| Eden Hazard | Chelsea | 6 | 90 |
As shown by the table provided by Opta, the dominant midfielder notched an incredible nine successful take-ons – two more than the next best in the Premier League, Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha.
Pogba’s ability to run with the ball through the middle is such a potent weapon as aside from taking defenders out of the game, he creates extra space for the likes of Ibrahimovic and Antony Martial to exploit.
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba shoots at goal
The 23-year-old can tackle, pass, finish off moves and cover the space well, but his dribbling ability is arguably an attribute United have been missing in their midfield for years.
Jose Mourinho is seemingly set to partner Pogba and Marouane Fellaini in the middle of midfield, and given time the duo have the potential to become the best dominating two in the top-flight.
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba in action
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
