Manchester United and France midfielder Paul Pogba is one of the most often over-analyzed footballers in the entire world. He’s very polarizing, both as a player on the pitch, and as a public figure off the pitch. There are many reasons why he’s such a lightning rod- the record breaking transfer fee, extremely high salary, flamboyant dance moves and outrageous hair styles.
Pogba addressed that last one specifically, as well as a host of other issues, at a news conference today, the first media session he’s done with the France national team in four years.
It comes at an opportune time, as he’s been widely praised for his performances thus far in the World Cup. Pogba opened his news conference by telling the media how much he loves them, and acknowledging how little he talks to the media.
“I love you so much, I have really missed you. You know me, I am not a big talker, but it is great to see you all here for me,” he said.
“I do not often come to talk to the press, but as you obviously love me lots, I will give you something in return.”
He also discussed #Pogback, his returning to United from Juventus, for a then world record setting ยฃ89.3m transfer fee in 2016. Pogba recognizes how much it has altered his life, and especially in the eyes of the French media
“It is not that you criticize me more.ย You love me more. You now talk so much about me, about the transfer. It has changed my life,” the lover of the Dab said.
Pogba has already made headlines for his haircuts once this World Cup, as he flew in his barber from England to give the French national team a trim. Players formed long lines to get served by the celebrity hair stylist. Pogba articulated to the press his belief that his haircuts are being unfairly over-scrutinized.
“I think it is a French or European mentality, apparently you are not allowed to have a hairstyle and play football,” he said.
“I do not really understand, you only talk of the negative. When I dance and score, I hear nobody. When I dance, and we lose, then it is a problem. It is fine, though, I will continue, despite the critics. You say I am a showman, but I am just me; take me as I am.
“I smile, I will always smile in front of you, with or without the criticisms and praise. I will always be the same- that is what makes meย La Piocheย [a nickname] and Paul!”
Well said Paul Pogba, well said. You be you, and keep being you.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, is currently a regular contributor to SB Nation, WGN CLTV and Chicago Now.
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