Manchester City’s Midfield Crisis: Why Paul Pogba Isn’t the Solution
Manchester City are in uncharted territory. The four-time defending Premier League champions are in the midst of a crisis: struggling for wins, grappling with injuries, and looking a shadow of their once-dominant selves. Pep Guardiola, while adamant that things would be different with a fully fit squad, has admitted that reinforcements may be necessary in January — a rare departure from City’s usual transfer strategy.
“We are looking,” Guardiola said, signaling that City may break their traditional reluctance to conduct winter business. But with January transfers notoriously overpriced, the club is reportedly exploring more cost-effective options, including free agents. Among those available? Paul Pogba — a name as eye-catching as it is controversial.
Paul Pogba: A Tempting Yet Problematic Option
Pogba’s name carries both allure and baggage. The former Manchester United midfielder, famous for his two-minute brace in 2018 that denied City an early Premier League title, has a history of causing division at his former club and grabbing headlines for the wrong reasons. Yet, Pogba has also been admired by City in the past, making his availability intriguing.
On paper, a free-agent signing like Pogba might seem like an ideal stopage solution for City’s midfield crisis. With Rodri being irreplaceable and no like-for-like alternatives, Pogba’s talent could theoretically offer short-term support. However, the reality is far more complex.
Pogba, currently serving a suspension until March, would not be eligible to play for City until the season’s run-in. By that time, he will not have played competitive football in 18 months, raising serious concerns about his fitness and form. Guardiola’s City cannot afford to gamble on a player with such uncertainty surrounding his readiness.
A Poor Fit for City’s Immediate Needs
Even beyond his fitness issues, Pogba simply doesn’t fit the profile of what Guardiola’s side needs right now. City require an impact player, someone who can immediately step into the midfield and stabilize the team. Adding Pogba — who would likely spend more time in the injury room or gym than on the pitch — would only complicate matters further.
His history with Manchester United, fitness concerns, and tendency to attract unwanted media attention also make him an awkward choice. While City might have admired Pogba’s talent in the past, the current circumstances make a reunion highly unlikely.
What’s Next for City?
Guardiola and City’s hierarchy face a critical January. The club must decide whether to splash out millions on a proven midfield option or explore alternatives like short-term loans. What’s clear, however, is that Paul Pogba is not the answer.
City are desperate, but not desperate enough to take a gamble on a player whose form, fitness, and availability are shrouded in doubt. The reigning champions need solutions, not distractions, to salvage their faltering title defense.
