I wasn't happy - Paul Pogba opens up about depression during Jose Mourinho's Man Utd's reign

I wasn't happy - Paul Pogba opens up about depression during Jose Mourinho's Man Utd's reign

Hassan Abdulsalam 19:08 - 09.04.2025

Paul Pogba has admitted to experiencing depression while playing under Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.

Former Manchester United star Paul Pogba has revealed that he "fell into depression" during his tumultuous time under Jose Mourinho's management at Old Trafford.

The French midfielder's relationship with Mourinho soured during his second spell at Old Trafford, which began in 2016.

Pogba, who initially joined Manchester United's academy, built his reputation at Juventus before returning to England.

However, his time under Mourinho was marked by frustration and disappointment.

"I didn't understand," Pogba said in an interview with GQ Magazine.

Paul Pogba drug ban. Image source: Imago

"I was a player with a big role in the team, and suddenly, I found myself on the bench. I couldn't speak, there was no communication. I wasn't happy, and a football player who isn't happy can't perform well. I fell into depression without even realizing it," he added.

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Pogba's struggles with depression went unnoticed until he began experiencing physical symptoms, including holes in his scalp.

Raphael Varane, Paul Pogba and Mason Greenwood of Manchester United, ManU during the Premier League match || Image credit: Imago

"They told me it was stress," he revealed.

Mourinho's tenure at Manchester United was marked by controversy, with his relationship with Pogba often at the centre of attention. Despite winning the Europa League and League Cup, Mourinho's time at Old Trafford ultimately ended in departure, with Pogba following suit.

Pogba rejoined Juventus in 2022 but faced a setback when he failed a doping test, resulting in a four-year ban.

His punishment was later reduced on appeal, paving the way for his return to football.

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