Solskjaer explains Paul Pogba half-time substitution in Manchester United vs Granada
Speaking to the press, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed why he took off Paul Pogba at half-time against Granada. (h/t ManUtd.com)
Manchester United made it through to the semi-finals of the Europa League with another 2-0 win over the La Liga club. On the night when our captain Harry Maguire was out suspended, Paul Pogba has handed the captain’s armband.
And, the Frenchman led the team from the front, playing a role in Edinson Cavani’s early goal and generally looking sharp on and off the ball.
However, his eagerness to impress also meant he gave away a few fouls and was booked just 17 minutes into the game for an elbow on his opposite number, German Sanchez. Soon after, there was another foul on Yangel Herrera.
With a huge semi-final against AS Roma coming up, losing Pogba due to suspension would have been a blow. And, that is why Solskjaer decided to take him off during the half-time interval.
“You know Paul, he doesn’t just dip a toe into his tackles – he wants to win the ball, he’s a big lad, and sometimes it happens, he gets a yellow card. I thought Paul played really well, and we lost a lot with him coming off, of course.
“But I couldn’t take the risk [of him picking up a suspension]. We’ve missed three [suspended players] today and the season’s been hard enough as it is anyway.”
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Pogba, in a separate interview (h/t The Sun), was in agreement with his manager’s decision, accepting that it was the right call, especially as he felt the Granada players were trying to get him sent off.
“The foul just after I saw all the players trying to get me out. I think that’s when the manager saw it as well that it’s better I come off before I get a red card and I can put my team in difficulties.”
In the end, it was all okay. No suspensions, no injuries, win, clean sheet and progression to the semi-finals. Let’s hope that the team kicks on and goes all the way this time around.
