Juventus’ Allegri: Pogba a ‘icon’ of this team

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said new signing Paul Pogba will be a “icon” of the team.

The France international joined on a free transfer after his Manchester United contract expired for the second time in his career.

And Allegri singled him out for special praise after their 2-0 win over Chivas in pre-season on Friday.

The Juve coach said: “It was a good test. At times, we played with good rhythm, the team worked hard in Turin these days and you could see that.

“Pogba played well, there were a few elements he needs to work on but he will be an icon of this team.”

The 29-year-old returned for his second spell with the club earlier in the summer, having previously been a Juve player from 2012 to 2016.

The Bianconeri’s next pre-season friendly will be against Barcelona in Dallas, Texas on Tuesday before they face Real Madrid on Saturday in Pasadena.

Juve’s final pre-season friendly again pits them against LaLiga opposition, this time Atletico Madrid will be their opponents in Tel Aviv, Israel on August 7.

Allegri’s side then begin their Serie A campaign with the visit of Sassuolo eight days later.