Paul Pogba was struck down with a mystery illness ahead of Man United’s FA Cup win at Huddersfield – but reports are emerging of more sinister developments behind the scenes.
This morning’s edition of The Sun claims manager Jose Mourinho was involved in an explosive dressing room bust-up with the Frenchman last week.
The report claims that the Portuguese boss slammed Pogba and United defender Phil Jones in the wake of the club’s surprise defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park.
“Mourinho was furious,” an insider said. “Everybody could hear him shouting at Pogba and Jones. He obviously thinks they should do better but the pressure is getting to them.”
Pogba was originally included in Mourinho’s starting XI to face Huddersfield but the club confirmed on Saturday morning that the player had reported in sick.
Jones, who also felt the full force of Mourinho’s fury, had already declared himself unfit earlier in the week as tensions reportedly reached boiling point.
Mourinho was quizzed over the condition of Pogba, who has been the subject of speculation he is at loggerheads with his coach, before the game at the John Smith’s Stadium.
“I don’t know how Paul is,” the Special One snapped at a BT Sport reporter. “I didn’t want to know before the game and now is the time to find out.”
It is not yet known whether the French international will be available to face Sevilla in a Champions League knockout clash on Wednesday evening.
