A blue Devil
Jose demands stars to show how much it means to play for United
France coach Didier Deschamps said that Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba “can’t be happy” with his current situation at Old Trafford. Pogba was an unused substitute in Saturday’s FA Cup win over Brighton after being left out of the starting line-up for the Champions League loss to Sevilla. “I don’t know why that is ... But of course it’s a situation he won’t be enjoying,” said Deschamps.
LONDON: Jose Mourinho has issued a tub-thumping war cry to his Manchester United stars, telling them to get it into their heads how big the club is.
The United chief battered them for being “afraid” in Saturday’s English FA Cup win over Brighton.
But in an emotional address, he impressed on his bruised players the responsibility they have to their worldwide fanbase.
Mourinho recognises the importance of his role as manager of a club the size of United and passed that message on to his team.
He made it clear they must respect the shirt, the club and their history – as well as the manager – during a passionate speech to his squad.
The Special One told them to accept their responsibilities and appreciate their position as United players while away on international duty.
Mourinho has been stung by criticism of his approach and selections following the Champions League 2-1 home defeat to Sevilla last Tuesday.
United’s boss, desperate to end the season with a trophy, faces an FA Cup semi-final with Tottenham next month.
But France coach Didier Deschamps has not helped Mourinho’s cause by claiming Paul Pogba is unhappy at the Red Devils.
The £89mil (RM489mil) midfield star has been left out of the starting XI for United’s last three games. Deschamps will hold talks with Pogba ahead of friendlies with Colombia and Russia.
He said: “I don’t know what it is. I’m sure I’ll hear about it.”