Real Madrid are once again setting their stall out to sign the world’s best talent this summer, with coach Zinedine Zidane revealing Juventus’ Paul Pogba was genuine target. The fellow Frenchman was quoted as saying: “Many clubs are interested in him and among these is Real Madrid. I think Pogba is a fantastic player. What I like most is that he can do everything. He is a complete player, who can also score, who is not afraid to go forwards. In terms of quality, he is extraordinary.”
There’s no question about his ability, but where he will fit into the Real Madrid’s midfield is another matter. Last season, it was Luka Modric, James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos who were operating in the central midfield areas, and all three performed well for Real. New manager Rafael Benitez was brought into the side to make them a difficult side to beat in the top competitions after falling short on all three fronts. But can Pogba really be the difference?
Toni Kroos has been key in the heart of the midfield providing defensive protection that Real are always crying out for, while Modric is the link between midfield and attack. He’s industrious and creative, and has been an unsung heroes for the Spaniards since his move from Tottenham. As for Rodriguez, the pricey Colombian has been superb in his debut season, scoring & assisting, while doing his defensive duties and retaining possession.
Many feel it will be Modric whose position is under the most threat, but ousting him from the side for a more attacking player is certainly risky. It’s such decisions in the transfer market that continue to see Real Madrid struggle, as the Spaniards have a top-heavy side susceptible to conceding goals. Boasting one of the best attacks in the world isn’t enough if they cannot keep out their opposition. Pogba does provide an all-round threat in the midfield, but he’s more proficient going forward than he is going back towards his own goal.
Real Madrid’s obsession with buying the most talented individuals without a plan of action of where they will all fit hasn’t served them well in the last decade and more. They have world-class stars in all positions, but not enough balance to be defensively resolute. Nevertheless, Pogba will likely be lured in due to Real’s European reputation and greater finances, but who will make way for him this summer?
