Juventus star Paul Pogba promises he will work hard to return to action ‘as soon as possible’ and admits he spoke to Massimiliano Allegri while at Manchester United.
The France international has been forced to the sidelines due to a meniscus injury which he initially treated with conservative therapy.
He had to undergo surgery in September to fix the problem permanently and Max Allegri revealed a few weeks ago that the 2018 France World Cup winner would be available for Juventus starting from January.
“I can promise that I will work hard to get back on the pitch as soon as possible to help the team gain the victories we deserve,” Pogba told GQ Magazine, as quoted by La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
“I like to face challenges with a smile in life and football. My love for this sport motivates me to give my best every day. I am accustomed to handling rumours, having begun my career early.”
Juventus fans on Instagram have recently criticised him because of his new hairstyle, accusing him of spending more time at the barber shop than off the pitch.
“As athletes we know that we must cohexist with praise and criticism week in and week out, knowing that we must keep a balance and focus on our work,” said Pogba.
The 29-year-old returned to Juventus for a second spell at the club this summer after spending six seasons at Manchester United.
“My heart made a choice, it was the right moment to return,” he explained.
“The last three years in Manchester did not go as I wanted, this is no secret. I was affected by injuries. A return to Juventus was a great challenge for the club and me.
“I learned a lot at Manchester United. Now I am a different player. I must take more responsibility. During my first spell, there were many experienced players here, Pirlo, Buffon Chiellini…Now I’ve become like them and it’s up to me to achieve the same results for Juventus.”
Juventus boss Allegri was one of the reasons why Pogba returned to Turin six years after his €100m move to Old Trafford.
“I’ve always had a strong bond with Max, very open and honest. He knows me very well and we’ve always spoken also when I was in Manchester.”
Read the second part of Pogba’s interview: ‘Just one difference between Serie A and Premier League’