French midfielder Paul Pogba has revealed shocking details about his difficult time at Manchester United, marked by conflicts with coaches and a deep emotional crisis. In an interview with GQ, the 2018 World Cup champion spoke openly about the depression he experienced during his second spell at Old Trafford, a struggle he initially didn’t even recognize.

A dream return that turned into a nightmare

After developing in the club’s youth academy, Pogba left in 2012 to shine at Juventus, where he reached the Champions League final in 2015. Four years later, in 2016, Manchester United made a record-breaking investment to bring him back, making him the most expensive transfer in history at the time. However, what seemed like a fairytale soon turned into a nightmare.

"Returning to this club was always my dream," he admitted. But his relationship with José Mourinho became strained, and his role in the team changed drastically. "I didn’t understand what was happening. I went from being a key player to suddenly sitting on the bench," he explained. The lack of communication with the coach and the uncertainty pushed him into deep sadness.

"A footballer who isn’t happy cannot perform well. I fell into depression without even realizing it. No one teaches us what depression really is until you start noticing physical signs, like hair loss due to stress," Pogba revealed.

Overcoming struggles and an uncertain future

Despite his tough time in England, Pogba managed to bounce back and shine with the French national team, playing a crucial role in winning the 2018 World Cup alongside N’Golo Kanté. However, his story at Manchester United came to an end in 2022 when he returned to Juventus.

Now, after serving an 18-month suspension for doping, the midfielder is without a club but determined to find a new destination where he can reclaim his best form. "I have options and want to choose wisely. My priority is to enjoy football again," he stated.

Meanwhile, his former team continues to fight for the Europa League, with Rúben Amorim leading the squad into a crucial quarterfinal clash against Olympique Lyonnais. Perhaps, in his free time, Pogba will follow the Red Devils, reflecting on a chapter of his life that changed him forever.