Paul Pogba positive for Covid-19, Anthony Martial in France squad, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka in isolation

Manchester United and France star Paul Pogba has tested positive for Covid-19. Manchester United revealed the result this morning, and have wished the Frenchman a speedy recovery.

Pogba’s ailment will require him to isolate and recover over the next few weeks. Though he should have time to recover in time for Manchester United’s 2020/2021 season, it is important to keep in mind both how unpredictable the virus can be and the limited understanding of its long term health effects.

Everyone at The Busby Babe wishes Paul a speedy recovery, and good health and safety to his family in this difficult time.

Pogba’s isolation and recovery has also forced his withdrawal from the French National Team ahead of the renewal of International play for the UEFA Nation’s League. In his place, France have called up Manchester United striker and 2019/20 top goalscorer, Anthony Martial.

Martial was dropped from the French team early in 2018 by Didier Deschamps after Jose Mourinho’s controversial decision to bench the Frenchman after the arrival of flop transfer signing Alexis Sanchez. Martial missed out on the 2018 World Cup winning campaign, and has not earned another cap for France since.

Finally, in other Covid-19 related Manchester United news, Aaron Wan-Bissaka will have to go into a 14-day isolation after his return from vacation in the UAE. His required quarantine after Dubai will mean he’ll miss some of United’s pre-season training at Carrington, but there shouldn’t be too much of a fuss. He kept in good shape through the initial 3-month suspension of football, and will be back in time to train before the season starts in mid-September.