Manchester United are far too fond of holding on to the good times.
The phrase ‘the United way’ has been bandied about more often than #downingstreetparty in the past few years.
However, the ‘United way’ seems to be more about recalling the glory days of Sir Alex Ferguson than focusing on the mess the side finds itself in right now.
Discussions only recently got under way to revamp Old Trafford, a stadium of huge stature and history but one in danger of being overshadowed by the noisy neighbours.
Hiring Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager made for great PR – the man who provided one of the greatest moments in United’s history charged with lifting the team from its ruins.
Arguably, however, the Red Devils find themselves back in the sticky mess they started in.
Even re-signing Cristiano Ronaldo was a nod to the success of season’s gone by, plumping the memory of a number seven who left for Real Madrid in 2009.
Not so perfect Pogba
Another obsession United seemingly can’t get over is Paul Pogba.
Like Ronaldo, Pogba was brought back to the land were it began, all shiny and new from his excursion to Juventus.
The Frenchman had matured on the continent and was ready to reignite his United career. After half a decade, though, the 28-year-old has barely lit the fire.
The midfielder’s memorable moments in a red jersey have been few and far between. The occasional dazzling display here, the odd flash of genius there.
Other than that, it has been a question of if he comes good rather than when.
Pogba problems
It doesn’t seem as though the situation is going to get any better for Pogba, either. He’s already missed almost two months of the campaign through injury and is set to remain on the sidelines for another four weeks.
By then, his future in Manchester may already have been decided.
According to the Telegraph, the World Cup winner still hasn’t decided whether he’ll sign a new contract that expires in the summer.
Pogba should take it on himself to end the game of cat and mouse and cut ties with United.
The relationship hasn’t felt right for a while. Someone has to hang up first.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
