Pogba reveals what really caused Mourinho split at Manchester United

Paul Pogba has offered fresh insight into his strained relationship with Jose Mourinho during their time at Manchester United, pointing to a mix of injuries and persistent media scrutiny as key factors behind their eventual fallout.

The French midfielder was re-signed by United in 2016 for a then-world record fee, with Mourinho playing a central role in bringing him back to Old Trafford.

Their partnership initially delivered success, including triumphs in the EFL Cup and the UEFA Europa League during their first season together. At that stage, the relationship between player and manager appeared harmonious, both professionally and personally.

However, that early understanding began to deteriorate during the following campaign.

Speaking on a podcast hosted by Rio Ferdinand, Pogba reflected on the dynamic he shared with Mourinho, stressing that there was mutual respect despite the breakdown in communication.

“I don’t have any problem with any coaches, you know. I always respect, always respect. They tell me what to do. They are the boss. That’s the truth. They are the boss. They decide if you play or not.”

Pogba also recalled the lighter side of Mourinho’s personality in the early days of their working relationship, describing the Portuguese coach as engaging and humorous.

“And we were very cool at the start, very cool, sending messages and stuff like that. He’s a really funny man. He’s a funny guy. He’s really special, to be honest.”

As tensions grew, Pogba suggested that external factors began to shape the narrative around their relationship. Injuries limited his availability at key moments, while constant questions from the media appeared to strain Mourinho’s patience and influence his perception of the player.

“And after a time, I think the injuries created that,” Pogba explained. “And, you know, when always the media ask him questions about me, maybe makes him a bit like, okay, is he done?”

“Always Paul, Paul, Paul. And that probably pissed him off.”