Paul Pogba has discussed returning to Turin for when Manchester United play their Champions League away match at Juventus. He has said ‘Turin is my home’, leading people to speculate that he is angling for a move back to Italy. Pogba played his best football for Juventus so it would be no surprise if he returned, should they be able to afford him. It’s also worth remembering that Pogba pretty much wants to play anywhere but for Jose Mourinho these days.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first goal for Manchester United 15 years ago today. Ronaldo’s is, at best, a divisive figure at the moment and there’s good reason to be more reserved in our admiration for him until things are cleared up over the recent rape allegation towards him. Whether that means people can or can’t remember the time he scored his first goal fondly or not, I don’t know, but probably not.
The Telegraph have an article on Marcus Rashford’s stuttering progress as he hits 21. Rashford seems to unfocused on the pitch, and too selfish around the penalty box, to justify regular inclusion as a starter. But there is clearly an excellent player there sometimes still, and he is far too young for the club to give up. A loan feels drastic, but it might be the sensible option if he can find regular minutes at a demanding level.
According to a report, Real Madrid are considering a return for Jose Mourinho after they sacked Julen Lopetegui. Santiago Solari is the caretaker manager until the international break according to some reports, while Antonio Conte is also linked. Mourinho moving to Real would be a pleasant way to get Ed Woodward and Mourinho out of their respective holes.
And lastly, Manchester United want both a defender and a striker in the next transfer window. Well, Mourinho does, but Woodward might have something to say about that. ‘No,’ for instance.