Manchester United ace Paul Pogba reveals why he did not change hairstyle at World Cup after criticism
Tell-all Q and A on star's Instagram story reveals a number of hidden truths about the midfielder, who helped his country to a second World Cup title in Russia
PAUL POGBA has revealed the true reason behind his decision not to change his hairstyle at the World Cup this summer - and hinted at a new career path.
The Manchester United star took to Instagram for a tell-all Q and A that also included the current location of his World Cup winner's medal and what advice he would give to young players.
Pogba, 25, played in six of France's seven games in Russia as they stormed to a second world title.
The midfielder capped an excellent tournament with the third goal in the 4-2 final win over Croatia, thumping past Danijel Subasic from 20 yards with his supposedly weaker left foot.
But one thing bemused some fans - where were all his different hairstyles?
Derided in the past by the likes of Garth Crooks and Gary Neville for having "more hairstyles than good games" for United, Pogba's barnet stayed decidedly one-dimensional - and one-toned - at the World Cup.
Get these United players in your Dream Team
Fred - £2.5m
Brazilian is known for his consistent performances in Ukraine.
Paul Pogba - £5m
World Cup winner set to improve on last season's 135 points tally.
In the Q and A, Pogba revealed that the reason for this was his desire to focus on his performances and give pundits no angle for unnecessary criticism.
Replying to one fan who wondered why he did not 'paint' his hair a new colour, Pogba said: "Because I wanted peace to be only focused on my performance and not my look, so there is no excuse they could only criticise the football part."
It was a sentiment echoed by club boss Jose Mourinho, albeit in a somewhat different manner.
Stating why he believed Pogba had performed so well with France after a turbulent season with United, Mourinho said: "I think the World Cup is the perfect habitat for a player like him to give (their) best.
"Why? Because it's closed for a month, where he can only think about football. Where he's with his team on the training camp, completely isolated from the external world, where they focus just on football, where the dimensions of the game can only motivate."
Pogba's showings at the World Cup even won over former detractor and United legend Roy Keane, who had previously called the Frenchman a 'schoolboy'.
Keane said after the final: "I don't mind Pogba dancing now. He's entitled to have a dance now he's won the World Cup.
"He can do whatever the hell he wants with his hair."
Also in the Q and A, Pogba revealed the best advice for those looking to achieve their dreams.
He wrote: "Work very hard, ignore the haters and surround yourself with the people who love you."
Those "haters" may well include Mourinho, who he publicly clashed with last season, resulting in him being benched for youngster Scott McTominay.
Pogba has been linked with a world-record £200million return to former club Juventus this summer, which would end a rough spell with United since Mourinho brought him to Old Trafford for £89m in 2016.
The Frenchman also described the elation he felt when the final whistle went in Moscow, signalling his confirmation as a world champion.
He said: "I could not believe it then I thanked God and ran to hug the team."
As for the winner's medal he then collected, it currently resides "with my mom, hope she gives it back after my holidays".
Pogba brought his mother and two older twin brothers on to the pitch after the game and posed with the famous trophy in an emotional moment.
LATEST FOOTBALL NEWS
The Instagram post acknowledged his fans, who were asking him questions in their droves.
With one wondering how he felt about his adoring congregation, he said: "Hello to you. The fans inspire me to be my best self and give back the positive energy they give me."
A fan asked if he might start a more regular correspondence with fans, such as a YouTube channel or blog.
He replied: "Maybe I will, pogvlog!"
