Evra Claims Pogba Return Meant to Humiliate Ferguson

Patrice Evra has claimed that Manchester United's decision to re-sign Paul Pogba in 2016 was motivated by a desire to humiliate former manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Evra, a former teammate of Pogba, suggested on the Stick to Football podcast that the club aimed to send a message to Ferguson after Pogba left for Juventus on a free transfer in 2012. He argued that the signing was more about commercial interests than footballing ones, stating that the club was happy to sell shirts featuring Pogba's name. Evra also revealed he advised Pogba to join Real Madrid instead, but the player ultimately signed with United due to agent Mino Raiola's influence. Despite initial success, Pogba's return was marred by inconsistent performances, leading to his departure back to Juventus on a free transfer in 2022. Evra's comments highlight ongoing concerns about Manchester United's transfer strategy and the legacy of their ownership under the Glazers.