Former Chelsea and Real Madrid star Claude Makelele reveals his compatriot Paul Pogba needs a ‘serene season’ and ‘no distractions’ off the pitch to bounce back at Juventus.
Pogba has been struggling with playing time in Turin but has recently returned to action after a meniscus injury and several muscle issues suffered throughout the season.
Speaking at the Laureus World Sports Awards on Tuesday, his compatriot Makelele opened up about Pogba’s problems at the Allianz Stadium this term.
“He hasn’t been fit and has been distracted by many off-the-field issues,” he said, as quoted by Gazzetta.
“For a player, giving 100% in similar conditions is hard. Quality won’t emerge if the head isn’t free from certain thoughts. I hope he’ll have a serene season and see the real Pogba like in the past. He needs it. He must feel well with his teammates and have no problems off the pitch.”
The ex-Manchester United midfielder has recently revealed that he was the victim of an attempted kidnapping in March 2022. Five individuals were arrested, including his brother and several childhood friends.
Pogba has only made eight competitive appearances with the Old Lady this term.
He returned to the Allianz Stadium on a free transfer from Manchester United in the summer of 2021. During his first spell in Turin from 2012 until 2016, Pogba had scored 34 goals in 178 competitive matches.