Paul's Plight

Stem cells are special. If you do not know why, it is because they have the ability to become any different number of cells through differentiation.

Paul Pogba is special. If you do not know why, it is because he has the ability to become any type of midfielder he wants because of the different sets of footballing attributes he has within his locker. A tall, imposing figure that is still capable of the most delicate plays because of the dexterity in his feet is the simplest way to capture the essence of which the French-born Manchester United player is able to produce on his best days. Ignoring the fact that the day it will happen is unbeknownst to everyone until he actually plays, his definitive position and role is still shrouded in mystery to a certain extent.

As much as this is a positive for his manager, as he can provide different sets of solutions for different tactical set ups, on an individual level, this could keep back Pogba from reaching the level that has been expected of him since he first signed for Manchester United back in 2009. He is so good to the point where it may actually be bad for him, in terms of progressing as a footballer. He only needs to look at his current compatriot in Wayne Rooney to see how being a jack of all trades and almost a master of them all can have such a detrimental effect on individual aspect, consensus of pundits & fans and the accolades such as the team and player of the year awards, of his career.

So is there a role capable of getting the best of all of Pogba’s attributes, even if he would have to learn how to do the jobs required in that role that he is not as good at?