Paul Pogba played circa 20 minutes in Juventus‘ 2-1 win over Lecce on Wednesday and La Gazzetta dello Sport highlights the Frenchman will have an ‘important role’ next season with Adrien Rabiot edging towards a free transfer to the Premier League.
Pogba has been struggling with injuries since his return to the Allianz Stadium from Manchester United in the summer of 2022, making only seven appearances across all competitions with the Old Lady.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus directors will likely sit down with the France midfielder at the end of the season. The club didn’t like how he handled the first meniscus injury in August, delaying surgery and missing the first part of the season. However, they won’t ask their star to take a pay cut following his prolonged spell on the sidelines.
Pogba was praised by coach Massimiliano Allegri after a 2-1 win over Lecce on Wednesday:
“For the first time, I saw Paul look confident and in good shape. I’d have wanted him like that from the start of the season, it has been a cursed campaign for him,” said the Bianconeri boss.
“He is not in a condition to play 90 minutes and he knows it, but it doesn’t matter if he plays 60 minutes or 30, the important thing is that he comes on with the attitude he had today and is decisive.”
According to Gazzetta, Juventus expect Pogba to take a leading role next season, especially considering that his compatriot Rabiot will likely leave as a free agent in June, with many offers coming from the Premier League.
Pogba will therefore have more responsibility, playing alongside youngsters Nicolò Fagioli and Fabio Miretti and Nicolò Rovella, who will return from his loan spell at Monza.