Jose Mourinho takes United's vice-captaincy away from Paul Pogba
What's the story
On the day when Manchester United shockingly bowed out of the League Cup after losing to Derby County, another news from their camp has been equally stunning.
Manager Jose Mourinho has stripped Paul Pogba of the vice-captaincy of Manchester United.
Pogba had been leading the squad in the absence of Antonio Valencia, the club captain.
Further details follow.
Criticism
Pogba had criticized Mourinho's tactics against Wolves
United had drawn their match against Wolverhampton 1-1 at home where Jose Mourinho was critical of the attitude of his team.
Pogba, on the other hand, questioned United's tactics and during a post-match interview said, "We are at home and we should play much better against Wolves. We are here to attack".
This criticism seems to have not gone well with the manager.
Reasons
Mourinho's reasons for taking away Pogba's vice-captaincy
Jose Mourinho, reportedly, informed Pogba of his decision before United's League Cup match against Derby County.
According to the Portuguese manager, Pogba "doesn't represent what a captain is and Manchester United is bigger than anyone".
However, Mourinho has also said that he was the manager and that it was his right to make the decision.
He has also denied any rumors of a fall-out.
Performance
Pogba was starting to deliver this term
The current season was seeing Paul Pogba living up to his price tag and performing ably for United.
He was dictating the mid-field and scoring goals, having already netted in four times in his seven appearances for the club this term.
Pogba, however, was the one who lost possession in the Wolves match which eventually led to their equalizer.
Barcelona
Barcelona already eyeing the French superstar
In the midst of all the rumors, it has also been reported that Spanish giants Barcelona are interested in signing the French World Cup winner.
They will scout Pogba for the whole season to know whether acquiring him will be fruitful.
If Pogba's relationship with Mourinho continues to deteriorate, it will not be long before we see the last of him at United.