Football
Ben Gladwell, Italy correspondent 8y

Paul Pogba's ex-boss: Manchester United return would be beautiful

Paul Pogba's first coach believes the Juventus midfielder would be making a wise choice by returning to Manchester United this summer.

Sources have told ESPN FC that Real Madrid have made contact with Juve over Pogba, 23, but that United remain favourites to land the France international, and both Sky Sport Italia and Gazzetta dello Sport have reported that an agreement could be reached by the end of the week.

Pogba, who left United for Juve on a free transfer in 2012, began his career with French side Le Havre under the guidance of Mohamed Chacha, and the coach says a move to Old Trafford would be a good option.

"Returning to United will be a beautiful thing for Paul," Chacha told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "When he was there he didn't have the opportunity to break through to the first team. Now, with his return he can show his talents."

Asked about the fee, which could be in the region of €120 million, he said: "I don't like to talk about money, but if the Red Devils are willing to pay so much it's only because Paul is a great talent and a golden boy who works so hard to win everything."

Chacha, who worked with Pogba between 2007 and 2009, does not believe the midfielder has reached his peak.

"What dazzled me was his calmness on the pitch and his exceptional technique," he said. "He took many risks with the ball and looked to create a new move every day.

"For someone as lanky as he was, it was an amazing thing. Paul didn't have highly developed physical attributes yet, however, he had mass and strength in his legs. Afterwards, at United he grew so much in an athletic aspect."

He added: "He's only 23 years old and has room to grow. To train with great players and with a great coach will always make you better. We have yet to see his peak."

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