Manchester United got their Premier League campaign off to a decent start last weekend, thanks to a 2-1 win at home to Leicester City. Luke Shaw’s second half strike was certainly a highlight, but it was the performance of Paul Pogba that offered the game’s real standout. The Frenchman, who had only returned to training four days prior to the game, was excellent in midfield, and was given the captain’s armband by Jose Mourinho.
Pogba, in his third season at the club since moving from Juventus, was clearly proud to captain the side, but also appeared to be taken the honour in his stride.
“When I was here before, Rio (Ferdinand) was captain. Patrice Evra was captain. Michael Carrick was also captain,” said Pogba to MUTV after Friday’s victory. “I went to Juventus and (Giorgio) Chiellini was the captain, and (Gianluigi) Buffon was the captain.
“I have learnt from all of them. I don’t think there is a book called ‘How to be a Leader’. You are either a leader on the pitch and off the pitch or you are not.
“I have always loved the club. I have played for the Academy, I have played for the first team and it was a dream come true. And now it is even more of a dream come true, wearing this armband, because of the past: the players who have played here and those who have been wearing this.
“For me, when I have this I have the confidence of the fans, they all help me. My team-mates also and I want to give them love and good performances on the pitch.
But it’s not just having the armband. I have always been talking to my team-mates.
Having the armband, it’s not like ‘oh, I will show that I am a real captain and have to do extra work’. No, I just have to be myself and do what I can do and what I know to do.”
