Manchester United: Paul Pogba was massive miss against Manchester City

Manchester United’s record without Paul Pogba this season speaks for itself but without the Frenchman’s presence on Sunday his absence was more evident than ever before. I analyse the short-term solution with games against Bournemouth and West Brom on the horizon and also how Mourinho can mitigate the issue for future seasons?

After a difficult first season back at Old Trafford, Paul Pogba is now as comfortable as ever. The man’s value to Manchester United is there for everyone to see. Even Graeme Souness. United are undefeated and have a win percentage of 87.5% when Pogba has played in the league this season. However, when he doesn’t play it drops as low as 50%.

United have not won 4 games when Paul Pogba has not been in the side this season in the league. Frustratingly for Mourinho, 3 of those matches have been against top 5 sides in Liverpool, Chelsea and City. Also injured ahead of the tedious 1-0 win over Spurs.

Had Pogba been available, performances like the pulsating 3-1 win over Arsenal may have been more familiar. However, Mourinho cannot use this as an excuse for his monotonous setup against Liverpool, Spurs, Chelsea and City.