Paul Pogba is unlikely to be back in action for Manchester United until February, with the midfielder being sidelined for another four or five weeks.
The 28-year-old has been out since November after sustaining a groin injury in the international match with France.
After starting his rehabilitation in Dubai, Pogba returned to the UK in late December but boss Ralf Rangnick has warned that he is still far from a return to full training.
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What was said
Rangnick had initially hoped Pogba would be ready to resume training in early January, but he has now been given a new schedule for his recovery.
Ahead of Manchester United’s FA Cup third round match against Aston Villa, the German announced that he doesn’t expect to see Pogba in a red shirt anytime soon.
“As far as I know, I was told a week ago that it would be at least another four or five weeks before he was fit for training again,” said Rangnick on the club’s website.
“I saw him this morning before practice, he was in the locker room and I hope he comes back as soon as possible.
“He wasn’t part of the training group at the moment and even if he’s back again and again, two, three or four weeks, it will take some time.
“Being fit for training is one thing, but on the other hand, you have to be fit for the game and competition in the Premier League or the Champions League, and that will take some time.”
The bigger picture
Pogba has entered the last six months of his contract at Old Trafford and can now talk to foreign clubs about a free transfer at the end of the season.
He hasn’t played for United since November 2 and has only made seven Premier League starts this season.
His agent Mino Raiola hinted in November that Pogba might leave Old Trafford, with players like Real Madrid and Juventus being linked to moves for the Frenchman.
Rangnick, who will only lead United for this season and remain an advisor thereafter, announced last month that he will not try to persuade Pogba to stay if he is not fully committed to the club.
