Paul Pogba has delivered a cutting response to years of criticism from Graeme Souness by revealing he was completely unaware of the former Liverpool midfielder's identity.
The 33-year-old Frenchman made the admission during an appearance on Rio Ferdinand Presents, where he addressed the relentless scrutiny he faced from the Sky Sports pundit throughout his time at Manchester United.
"I didn't know who he was. I heard he's a legend," Pogba stated.
Ferdinand reminded his guest of the constant attacks, telling him: "You was the most talked about guy on the planet around that time, I'm telling you. Graeme Souness was coming at you."
TRENDING
Stories
Videos
Your Say
Ferdinand specifically referenced a standout performance against Leeds on the opening day of the 2021-22 campaign, when Pogba registered four assists in United's comprehensive victory.
"You had four assists in one game and it was your fault," the former defender noted sarcastically, highlighting the absurdity of the criticism.
Even that exceptional display failed to satisfy Souness, who was 72 at the time.
Rio Ferdinand was keen to remind Paul Pogba about the criticism from Graeme Souness
|YOUTUBE
The pundit responded to Pogba's four-goal contribution match by stating: "We expect that from a £100million man."
Manchester United had paid a then-world record £89m to bring Pogba back from Juventus in 2016.
Despite the persistent criticism, Pogba's record at Old Trafford was substantial.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Graeme Souness never minced his words when it came to Paul Pogba
| PAAcross two separate stints with the club, the World Cup winner accumulated 233 appearances, finding the net 39 times while providing 51 assists for his teammates.
His trophy cabinet from the United years included a Europa League triumph and a Carabao Cup success.
Pogba now finds himself at Monaco as he attempts to resurrect his career following a doping suspension.
The midfielder was visibly emotional when completing his transfer to the Ligue 1 outfit, breaking down in tears upon securing the move.
However, his time at the Stade Louis II has been plagued by fitness problems.
Paul Pogba currently plays for Monaco in France | GETTYInjury setbacks have restricted the Frenchman to a mere four appearances since arriving at the club.
The struggles represent a stark contrast to his earlier career, when he commanded that record-breaking transfer fee and established himself as one of football's most talked-about figures.
Pogba had previously hoped to stage a remarkable comeback and make the France squad for this summer's World Cup.
That's unlikely to happen, however, with the veteran a shadow of the player he was during his prime years.