50 Facts About Paul Pogba

Early Life and Family

Paul Pogba's journey to football stardom began in the suburbs of Paris. His family background and early experiences shaped his path to becoming a global icon.

1. Pogba was born to Guinean parents, Yaya and Yeo Pogba.
2. He is the youngest of three siblings, with two elder brothers, Florentin and Mathias.
3. Florentin plays in the French Ligue 1 with Saint-Etienne.
4. Mathias has played for various clubs, including Wrexham and Crawley Town.

Youth Career

Pogba's talent was evident from a young age. His early career saw him move through several youth academies, each step bringing him closer to professional football.

5. Pogba began his youth career at US Roissy-en-Brie, a small club in the suburbs of Paris.
6. He later moved to US Torcy, where he continued to develop his skills.
7. In 2007, he joined Le Havre AC's youth team, where he caught the eye of international scouts.

Move to Manchester United

Pogba's potential was recognized by one of the biggest clubs in the world, leading to a significant move that would shape his career.

8. In 2009, Pogba joined Manchester United's youth academy.
9. He made his professional debut with Manchester United on September 22, 2011, in a League Cup match against Leeds United.
10. Despite his talent, Pogba struggled to establish himself in the senior squad, making only seven first-team appearances between 2010 and 2012.

Transfer to Juventus

Seeking more opportunities, Pogba moved to Italy, where he would flourish and become a key player for Juventus.

11. In 2012, Pogba left Manchester United on a free transfer to join Juventus.
12. Juventus paid a then-record transfer fee of €105 million to secure his services.
13. Pogba became an integral part of the team, helping Juventus win four consecutive Serie A titles.
14. He also helped the club win two Coppa Italia titles and two Supercoppa Italiana titles between 2012 and 2016.

Success and Recognition

Pogba's performances at Juventus earned him numerous accolades and recognition on the international stage.

15. He won the Golden Boy award in 2013.
16. In 2014, he received the Bravo Award.
17. Pogba was named in the 2015 UEFA Team of the Year.
18. He was also part of the 2015 FIFA FIFPro World XI.
19. Pogba helped Juventus reach the 2015 Champions League final, their first final in twelve years.

Return to Manchester United

Pogba's return to Manchester United was marked by a record-breaking transfer fee and high expectations.

20. In 2016, Pogba returned to Manchester United for a then-world record transfer fee of €105 million (£89.3 million).
21. During his first season back, he helped the team win the League Cup and the Europa League.
22. Pogba was named in the PFA Team of the Year for the 2018–19 season.

International Career

Pogba's impact extended beyond club football, as he played a crucial role for the French national team.

23. He captained France to victory at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he was named the Best Player of the tournament.
24. Pogba debuted for the senior team in 2014 and played at the FIFA World Cup, where he was named the Best Young Player.
25. He represented France at UEFA Euro 2016, finishing as a runner-up.
26. Pogba won the 2018 FIFA World Cup with France and scored in the final.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond football, Pogba has a range of interests and activities that showcase his personality and dedication.

27. At 16, Pogba hired a personal physiotherapist to ensure peak physical condition.
28. He also hired a dietitian to ensure proper nutrition.
29. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), Pogba's height and physicality give him a commanding presence on the field.
30. Known for his extravagant goal celebrations, Pogba often incorporates dance moves and showmanship.
31. His unique fashion sense and bold outfits have made him a global icon.
32. Pogba is involved in various charity initiatives, supporting organizations that help underprivileged children and promote education through football.

Memorable Moments and Achievements

Pogba's career is filled with memorable moments and significant achievements that highlight his talent and impact on the sport.

33. He represented the French U-20 team in the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup, earning the Best Player award.
34. Pogba won the Golden Boy award in 2013, presented to the best player under 21.
35. He was named in the Serie A Team of the Year for the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons.
36. Pogba was part of the UEFA Team of the Year in 2015.
37. He was included in the FIFA FIFPro World XI in 2015.
38. Pogba's goals are known for their precision and ferocity, including a thunderbolt against Udinese and sublime volleys against Napoli.
39. During his initial four years in Italy, Pogba dominated games with his technical excellence and physical presence.
40. Pogba is comfortable operating as a regista or a number 10, showcasing his versatility.
41. His range of passing allows him to control the tempo of matches, reminiscent of Andrea Pirlo.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite his talent, Pogba's career has faced significant challenges and controversies that have impacted his legacy.

42. Pogba has struggled with injury issues throughout his career, limiting his playing time.
43. In 2024, Pogba was banned for four years after testing positive for testosterone, significantly impacting his career.
44. His career has been marked by both incredible highs and disappointing lows, with injury issues and inconsistent performances.
45. Pogba has become a polarizing figure, with some praising his technical ability and others criticizing his inconsistency and perceived lack of effort.
46. Public perception of Pogba varies widely, with Manchester United fans often critical of his performances and Juventus supporters remembering his dominance during his initial four years in Italy.

Legacy and Impact

Pogba's influence on modern football and his legacy as a player are significant, despite the challenges he has faced.

47. Pogba's impact on Juventus during his initial stint cannot be overstated, forming a formidable midfield that dominated Serie A.
48. His return to Manchester United was highly anticipated, but his performances were met with criticism.
49. As of 2024, Pogba's career is in ruins due to a four-year ban, making it unlikely for any top team to take a gamble on him.
50. Despite the challenges, Pogba's legacy in football remains significant, remembered for his incredible talent, unique style, and contributions to both club and international football.

Pogba's Rollercoaster Ride

Paul Pogba's journey in football has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. From his early days at US Roissy-en-Brie to becoming a global icon, Pogba's career is filled with highs and lows. He dazzled at Juventus, winning multiple titles and earning individual accolades. His return to Manchester United saw mixed results, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by injuries and inconsistency. Internationally, Pogba shone brightly, playing a pivotal role in France's 2018 World Cup victory.

Despite recent setbacks, including a four-year ban for testing positive for testosterone, Pogba's impact on the sport remains significant. His unique style, versatility, and charisma have inspired countless young players. While his career has had its share of controversies, Pogba's legacy as a talented midfielder who could change the course of a game in an instant is undeniable. His story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports.