4 reasons why Paul Pogba can still win Ballon d’Or
Paul Pogba’s Ballon d’Or credentials have been trending following his hot and cold performances for Manchester United in the past two weeks.
The French midfielder showed his class during the Red Devils’ 3-2 comeback win over rivals Manchester City, scoring twice to bring the game to 2-2 before Chris Smalling added what proved to be the winner.
However, Pogba once again highlighted his inconsistent self with a drab performance a week later as Jose Mourinho’s men lost 1-0 at home to West Bromwich Albion. The 25-year-old has largely been the subject of criticism due to his inability to deliver every week.
But can he be blamed?
At 20, he was tipped by many football legends and pundits alike to go on and win the Ballon d’Or in the future. And, in truth, it is not too late for the Manchester United midfielder to go on and achieve that feat, although it will require a lot more effort from him.
Here are four reasons why Pogba can still win the prestigious Ballon d’Or award:
#4 He’s young and will definitely improve
The weight of expectation on Paul Pogba's shoulders is so massive that people often tend to forget that he is just 25-years-old. The France midfielder appears to be a victim of his own early success, which saw him claim three Italian Serie A titles, reach the Champions League final, captain the France U-20 side to World Cup glory and win the Golden Boy award, all before the age of 23.
However, he is still young and has time to develop into a world beater. Pogba’s physique makes him stand out among many midfielders, with his athleticism also an attribute that many can only dream of. The former Juventus star boasts enormous talents, which with the needed effort, could see him dominate world football for years to come.
Last week Brazil legend Ronaldinho opined that Pogba is a Ballon d’Or material, insisting the midfielder’s versatility makes him a unique player.
"He can win the Ballon d'Or, without a doubt," Ronaldinho told Canal Football Club. "I see Pogba as a friend, I don't see myself as his idol.
"He is young, talented and he has the ability to play anywhere, he can play in a free role, defensive, as a runner or attacking.
"He has the characteristics of a player who can fill any position, he can make history."
As stated by Ronaldinho, Pogba has characteristics that many players can only dream of and can definitely win the Ballon d’Or someday.