Paul Pogba “will become better” after inspiring France to World Cup glory, claims the midfielder’s former Manchester United team-mate Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The 25-year-old has faced plenty of uncomfortable questions in recent times, with there a sense that he is yet to show his true colours since completing an £89 million ($116m) return to Old Trafford in 2016.
Pogba was, however, to star for his country at Russia 2018, with a well-taken goal in a 4-2 final victory over Croatia providing a fitting end to a productive tournament.
Ibrahimovic has always been a staunch supporter of a player he considers to be one of the world’s best, with the Swedish frontman of the opinion that there is even more to come from a man who appears to be unlocking his full potential.
The LA Galaxy striker told reporters of Pogba’s perfect response to those who continue to write him off: "I played with him for two years and people like to give their opinion, which they have the right to do.
Next Match
"They judge but I think the result speaks for itself.
"You don't need to answer by your mouth, you can answer by your feet, and do what you are good at. That is the way it is supposed to be and the way I like to do it.
"He is young. He won the World Cup, he was in the Champions League final [with Juventus], the Europa League final [with United], the European [Championship] final [with France] - and he won many titles at Juventus.
"What more is there to say? Just enjoy the games and I know he will become better."
Getty Images
Pogba netted six times in 37 appearances for United last season, while providing 10 assists across his Premier League outings.
Jose Mourinho did not always place full trust in his creative talents, but the Portuguese has already called on a key man to replicate his international form at club level in 2018-19.
He told reporters in America as the Red Devils prepare to open their pre-season campaign: "I hope that he understands why he was very good.
"I think that's the point about his performance level and his contribution to a winning team – for him to understand why he was so good, especially in the second part of the competition.
"In the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final he was absolutely brilliant."
.jpg?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=640&quality=60)