Ralf Rangnick on when Paul Pogba will return to Manchester United’s starting XI

The interim manager was asked about Pogba’s contract situation and his disagreement with Martial.
Michael Plant
By Michael Plant
Published 18th Jan 2022, 13:47 BST
Updated 18th Jan 2022, 15:30 BST
Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba. Credit: Getty.Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba. Credit: Getty.
Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba. Credit: Getty.

Ralf Rangnick has admitted he is unsure what is happening with Paul Pogba’s contract situation at Manchester United.

The Frenhman’s current deal is set to expire at the end of the season, meaning he could walk away for free and is currently able to start negotiating with other clubs.

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There has been little talk recently about an extension and, during the same press conference where Rangnick said Pogba could return to the team soon, he also gave no indication as to whether the No.6 will still be at Old Trafford next season.

Rangnick said Pogba should be available for selection from the start of February. Credit: Getty.Rangnick said Pogba should be available for selection from the start of February. Credit: Getty.
Rangnick said Pogba should be available for selection from the start of February. Credit: Getty.

“I don't know. I cannot answer the second part of your question because it's not me dealing with this, I'm not negotiating about future contracts with players,” Rangnick responded, when asked if there was an update on contract negotiations.

“But what you could see from the very first day in training yesterday [Monday] is that he's present. He's physically present, he's mentally present.

“What I saw in training yesterday was very promising for the future and I'm very much looking forward to having him available in two weeks' time after the international break, and I think he will be a serious candidate for the first XI.”

Anthony Martial may have played his last game for the club. Credit: Getty.Anthony Martial may have played his last game for the club. Credit: Getty.
Anthony Martial may have played his last game for the club. Credit: Getty.

What next for Martial?

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Pogba wasn’t the only French international Rangnick was asked about ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Brentford, with the interim boss failing to rule out a return to the squad for Martial.

That comes after Rangnick claimed he ‘didn't want to be in the squad’ for Saturday’s 2-2 draw away at Aston Villa.

Martial took to social media on Saturday to refute that claim and said he would never asked to not be selected, something the United boss was asked to clear up.

“I had a personal conversation with him on Sunday about what happened and how I saw the whole situation and the matter is now resolved,” said the former RB Leipzig head coach.

“He did not train yesterday and the day before yesterday, he will probably train today and after training I will decide if he is selected or not.”

Related topics:Aston Villa

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