Paul Pogba seems like a different player for France and Manchester United. With his country, the 28-year-old looks more determined, focused and sharp while that's not the case when he's in club colours.
Tribuna.com takes a look at what exactly could be the reason behind that.
Pogba's stats for France
Pogba is currently performing well for France at the ongoing Euros. Except for one poor display vs Hungary, the midfielder continues to be one of the key players for the side.
A look at the chart above will show you how effective Paul has been but sadly, he's not always as impactful for United.
Goals and assists don't do enough to justify Pogba's effect on the field - it's more about his clever passes, link-up play and creativity.
At United, he scored seven goals across competitions last season. That's a decent return for a midfielder but as we mentioned earlier, goals and assists are not all that he's about.
N'Golo Kante - the secret sauce?
For France, Pogba has a rock-solid partner in N'Golo Kante.
The newly-crowned Champions League winner with Chelsea is a defensive beast in the midfield, which allows Pogba the freedom to focus on what he does best - creating chances.
However, at United, that's not the case. A lot has been said about how Pogba is unable to cope with his defensive duties.
In 2020/21, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer played him at left wing numerous times but even then, Pogba wasn't consistently delivering. Not how he does for France, at least.
One stat that may further prove Pogba's dependence on Kante is that the duo hasn't lost a single game (30 in total) when they've both started for Les Bleus.
In contrast, Pogba's partners at United are Fred and Scott McTominay. In no way is this meant to suggest that they're not good enough but they're not on the same level as Kante.
Bruno or Pogba for No.10?
Bruno Fernandes is the undisputed No.10 for United and rightfully so. That leaves Pogba in a precarious position because he's asked to do what he does best but without the reliable Kante by his side.
However, Bruno is unlikely to lose the No.10 spot anytime soon and that means Pogba will have to deal with it.
Deschamps' unwavering trust
Another factor could be Didier Deschamps and his unwavering support and trust in Pogba's abilities.
At United, Jose Mourinho shared a frosty relationship with the Frenchman. He's happier under Ole but Deschamps has strongly stood behind Paul since the time he broke into the France team.
It's a long shot to suggest that's a reason but it could be an underlying factor behind the difference in his form.
But is there more to it?
Mourinho famously stated in 2018 that it's not about United bringing the best out of Pogba but rather Paul giving it his best.
For example, in the Euro 2020, Pogba was spotted promising his mother that France will win the trophy no matter what. United fans couldn't help but point out that the Frenchman hardly showed as much passion for the club throughout 2020/21.
So, does Pogba play better for France?
The answer is yes but it's not so simple.
Whether we like it or not, Pogba enjoys a better relationship with his midfield partner, coach and teammates. That's not to say he's unhappy at United but it is what it is.
The Red Devils are reportedly in talks over giving him a new contract, with his current one expiring next summer. If he's intent on leaving, it would make sense to sell him now than lose him for free.
