Manchester United made a mistake by letting Pogba go: Pirlo

Andrea Pirlo feels that Juventus have benefitted hugely by acquiring Paul Pogba

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo says that he simply cannot understand why his current teammate Paul Pogba was allowed to leave by Manchester United. Pogba signed for Juventus in 2012 after growing frustrated at not getting first team football at the Old Trafford.

Pogba refused to sign a new contract tabled by the Old Trafford outfit and Sir Alex Ferguson even blamed the Frenchman of showing a lack of respect by not accepting the offer. The youngster has since emerged as one of the most talented midfielders in Europe.

Since his arrival at Juventus, the young midfielder has blossomed into one of the Bianconeri’s key figures. The 22-year-old has helped the Old Lady win their 31st League title this season and could also guide them to the Champions League title on Saturday.

Barcelona stands in the way of Juventus and a third European crown as the two teams face-off in Berlin for Europe’s biggest prize, and Pogba could be crucial to Juve’s chances. And Pirlo who could be playing his last game for Juventus in Berlin has lavished praised on the young Frenchman.

‘Will become greatest midfielder in Europe’

“If he carries on the way he is, then he will become the greatest midfield player in Europe - and at his age he could have that title for a long time,” Pirlo said to Mirror.

The Italian legend says that he couldn’t understand what United were thinking by letting him go. Pirlo was echoing what Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon had said a few weeks ago when he questioned United on letting Pogba leave.

“I don't understand why Manchester United let him go. If you look at their midfield now they could really use a player like him. It might have been a personal issue for Alex Ferguson, because it is clearly nothing to do with ability,” he said.

He further added that the whole situation turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the Italian outfit. “He (Pogba) has never really talked about the situation, but whatever the reasons he left, it has been great news for Juventus.”

Pirlo who is considered one of the greatest midfielders of his generation also revealed which United midfielder he would have loved to play with.

“I have been so fortunate to have played with so many incredible players throughout my career, but if I could pick one that I never got the chance to play with, it would be Paul Scholes.”

“One of the all-time greats. A genius on the field, but private - no circus around him off it. I have a lot of respect for him.”

Pirlo would be hoping that Pogba is at his best when Juventus takes on Barcelona in the final. Juve would be without their main defender Giorgio Chiellini who suffered a calf injury and has been ruled out of the final. That would mean that the likes of Pogba and Pirlo would have to shield their defence with more intensity against Barcelona’s lethal front line.