Paul Pogba has issued a rallying cry to his France teammates as they aim to reach their second World Cup final in a row.
Paul Pogba sends heartfelt message to France squad ahead of World Cup semi-final against Morocco
After defeating England 2-1 in the previous round, Didier Deschamps’ team faces Morocco in the second semi-final on Wednesday evening. France’s progress is remarkable even in their injury issues.
Karim Benzema and Christopher Nkunku were forced to withdraw from Les Bleus‘ squad just days before the tournament’s start. Pogba was another player who did not make the squad after suffering an injury shortly after rejoining Juventus last summer.
He tore his meniscus in preseason and had surgery, which kept him out of the tournament. Despite that significant personal setback, the 2018 World Cup winner has sent a message to his international teammates in Qatar ahead of their semi-final matchup with Morocco.
In a video message, the 29-year-old said, “Together! I completely agree with you. I give you all of my strength. This group represents all of my strength. That’s my band, those are my guys.”
Olivier Giroud suggested how much Pogba would be missed in Qatar, but reaffirmed his commitment to leading France to victory. “We will miss Paul Pogba a lot, like N’Golo Kante and Kimpembe,” the four-goal striker said ahead of the World Cup.
“Paul‘s personality takes up a lot of space in this France team. But I am confident that there are other young leaders who can emerge.” I, too, will play the role of big brother for the youngest, be available to them, and speak up when necessary.”
It is unclear when Pogba will return to action, as he has yet to make his second appearance for Juventus since his return from Manchester United. The Old Lady resume their season on January 4 against Serie A strugglers Cremonese.
