Paul Pogba expects big things from Borussia Dortmund starlet Jude Bellingham and recalled the unwavering mindset of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 29-year-old French midfielder will not take part in the upcoming World Cup in Qatar after undergoing a knee operation back in September, an injury that has kept him sidelined for the entirety of this season. Pogba is hoping to get back to full fitness for Juventus over this six-week break, allowing him to return to his best in the second half of the season.
Speaking on the Muslim Money Guys podcast, Pogba first discussed which types of midfielders he likes.
“They are not containment midfielders and they are not number 10s. They are the box-to-box ones, who make the play, who make assists and who can score – Kroos, Verratti and Thiago Alcantara, but also Pirlo, Scholes and Carrick.”
He spoke highly about the 19-year-old Bellingham, who will likely play a key role for England at the World Cup.
“Jude Bellingham is doing very well and I believe he will reach a very high level.”
Finally, Pogba discussed the Ronaldo situation at Manchester United and the strong mindset of the five time Ballon d’Or winner.
“I see professional football players, many of whom are very professional, arrive early, do all the catching up and things like that. But there is someone who has been there every single day and hasn’t stopped. That’s Cristiano.
“It’s his personality, he’s a winner, that’s for sure. He always wants to be right, he is never satisfied with what he has done, he always wants more. His motto is: ‘I can do more. I will do more’.
“His motivation is crazy. What I saw for a year when I was with him, every day is a new record, a new challenge for him. He challenges himself. He doesn’t see others, he says, I have to be better than me.”
The 29-year-old Pogba returned to Juventus on a free transfer in the summer after a difficult six-year spell with Manchester United. He’s signed a four-year contract with the Bianconeri and is one of the highest paid players in the squad.