Before we even start talking about his talent on the field, or the fact that he’s now the most
expensive footballer in the world, let us think about this boy, Paul Pogba, who played his heart out for Manchester United Youth Team for three years, hoping and dreaming one day to play in the first team alongside Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes… Then, all of a sudden when he thought his time had come, he realised the Boss didn’t consider him good enough at that time.
What he did next was go to another club, again played his heart out, got better, won FOUR Seria A titles in a row, two Italian Cups and became a superstar. Now the same football club who didn’t think he was good enough just broke the world record to have him back!
Now, about the money. The “POGBA 6” Manchester United shirt is projected to make the club (and him) about £100m profit in the next three years (the manufacturing cost of the shirt is like £9, but sells at £60); increased interest in his merchandising will quadruple; TV licensing rights will increase for Manchester United games; top dollar pre-season tours and not to talk of video games, fashion line leveraging and Pogba himself dancing, dabbing, changing his hairstyle and all round highlights just to generate more interest and marketing buzz.
Let’s now round off with his footballing skills. 23-year-old, 6 foot 4 inches of athleticism in a dynamic attacking midfielder that is not afraid to volley for goal from 30 yards. Quick dribbler and passer of the ball who can also jump above other players to win aerial battles, not to talk of the calming influence on the whole team with his experience. So if he does not score 20 goals a season (maybe 12), his impact is still felt in a team which includes Rooney, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Chris Smalling, David De Gea, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford.
In conclusion, the story of this boy Paul Pogba should be an inspiration to all kids aspiring to reach the top, and I have to say this, black and African kids especially (Pogba is French born of Guinean parents). Yes there are still traces of racism in football, but not so much in football business. If you’re good enough you will play, if you’re the best, they will break records for you. Even if it’s the best manager in the game that says you’re not good enough for first team, don’t let that kill your dream, show dem! That same manager will clap for you and want to take a picture with you another day.
Welcome back “home” Paul Pogba. Welcome back to the greatest football club in the world. Glory Glory Man United. And the Reds keep marching ON ON ON!!!
- Shonaiya is a filmmaker and Manchester United faithful
