Paul Pogba, the French midfield maestro, has captivated soccer fans worldwide with his unique blend of physicality, technique, and flair. His playing style is a masterclass in combining strength, ball shielding, creativity, and finishing ability—qualities that can be distilled into simple drills for players of all levels. This article breaks down the key elements of Pogba's game and how you can incorporate them into your training.
Understanding Pogba's Core Strengths
Pogba's effectiveness on the pitch stems from his exceptional physical attributes. Standing at 1.91 meters (6 feet 3 inches) and possessing remarkable core strength, he uses his body as a shield to protect the ball from defenders. This is not just about size; it's about technique. By placing his body between the ball and the opponent, Pogba creates a barrier that allows him to maintain possession in tight spaces. This skill is crucial for midfielders who often face double teams. To replicate this, players should practice receiving passes with their back to goal, using their arms and torso to feel the defender's pressure while keeping the ball on the far foot. Drills like "body shielding 1v1" can be done with a partner: the attacker tries to hold off a defender for five seconds while staying balanced.
Ball Shielding Drills
One effective drill involves setting up a 5x5 meter square. Players take turns being the attacker and defender. The attacker receives a pass and must shield the ball for 10 seconds while the defender tries to dislodge it. Focus on: low center of gravity, bent knees, and arms out for balance. Pogba often uses his back to turn and resist pressure, pivoting around the defender to create space for a pass or shot. This can be practiced with cones representing opponents—players must shield the ball, then accelerate away when an opening appears.
Escaping Pressure: Reading Movement and Quick Decisions
Pogba excels in congested areas because he reads the movement of both teammates and defenders. When facing more than one opponent, he uses feints, body swerves, and sudden changes of direction to break free. For instance, he might fake a pass one way, then drag the ball back with the sole of his foot and spin out. This requires excellent spatial awareness and rapid decision-making. Drills that simulate double teams are ideal: set up two defenders who can only move laterally within a narrow channel. The attacker must dribble through while using quick touches and head fakes. Pogba's signature move—the "Pogback" (a backheel flick)—can also be practiced by having players use the sole of their foot to flick the ball behind their standing leg.
Decision-Making Under Pressure
To improve decision-making, introduce a "3v2" possession game in a 10x10 grid. The three attackers must keep the ball for 20 passes while the two defenders try to intercept. This forces players like Pogba to scan the field constantly, identify passing lines, and choose when to dribble or pass. The key is to increase the speed of play gradually until decisions become instinctive.
Volleys and Finishing: Technical Control in the Air
Pogba's volleys are legendary, from his stunning strike against Juventus in the 2018 Champions League to his goal in the 2018 World Cup final. His ability to control the ball in the air and finish within a few touches is a product of relentless practice. For players wanting to emulate this, start with basic volleying drills: have a partner toss the ball from 10 yards away. The player must volley it back with the instep, focusing on keeping the foot firm and making contact with the ball's center. Progress to crossing drills where the player receives a high ball and must volley on target with one or two touches. Pogba often times his runs to meet crosses at the near post, using his strength to hold off defenders before striking.
Finishing Drill: The One-Touch Volley
Set up cones as defenders 2 yards from goal. A partner feeds balls from the wing. The attacker must take a touch to control the ball, then shoot with the second touch. This simulates game situations where defenders close in quickly. Pogba's composure in these moments comes from practice—he rarely takes unnecessary touches. Add a goalkeeper to increase realism. For advanced players, incorporate a bounce volley: the ball is thrown with backspin, and the player volleys it directly into the net.
Combining Strength, Awareness, and Technique
The true genius of Pogba's game is how he integrates these skills. During a match, he shields the ball while scanning for runners, then delivers a pinpoint pass or drives forward. His strength allows him to hold off defenders while he decides his next move. To develop this holistic ability, create a circuit that combines all elements: start with a body shielding drill (10 seconds), then a quick escape move through two cones, followed by a volley on goal. Repeat 5 times. This conditions the body and mind to transition quickly between defending, dribbling, and finishing.
Historical Context and Career Highlights
Born in Lagny-sur-Marne, France, on March 15, 1993, Paul Pogba rose through the youth ranks of Le Havre before joining Manchester United's academy in 2009. After a well-documented transfer to Juventus in 2012, he developed into one of the world's most complete midfielders, winning four Serie A titles and reaching the Champions League final in 2015. His return to Manchester United in 2016 for a then-world record fee brought additional trophies, including the Europa League in 2017. Pogba's crowning achievement came in 2018 when he scored in the World Cup final as France defeated Croatia 4-2. Despite injuries and controversies, his technical legacy remains influential. Coaches often study his games to teach young players how physicality and finesse can coexist. The drills outlined here are used by academies worldwide, from Manchester United's Carrington base to grassroots clubs in West Africa, demonstrating the universal appeal of his style.
Adapting Pogba's Methods for Amateur Players
Not every player has Pogba's frame, but the principles apply to all. Smaller players can use trickery and low center of gravity instead of brute strength. The key is timing and anticipation. For example, instead of holding the ball for long, a quicker release might be needed. Drills should be scaled: use smaller balls or larger grids for beginners. The emphasis on reading the game remains constant. Pogba often says in interviews that his best skill is his mind—understanding where space will open up before it does. Players can develop this by watching full matches without the ball, focusing on movement off the ball.
Advanced Tactical Concepts
At the highest level, Pogba's role varies between a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box dynamo, and an advanced attacker. His defensive contributions, including interceptions and tackles, are often overlooked. He averages 1.5 tackles per game in his career, but his positioning is what sets him apart. In training, replicate this by having a midfielder drop into a back three during build-up, then surge forward when the ball enters the final third. This requires stamina and intelligence. Pogba's ability to switch play with long diagonal balls also stems from his upper-body strength and accuracy. Practice long passes with both feet, aiming for a target 40 yards away. Consistency comes from repetition.
The Role of Creativity and Flair
Pogba's no-look passes, backheel flicks, and rainbow flicks are not mere showboating—they serve a purpose. They unbalance defenders and create openings where none existed. For young players, it's important to encourage creativity while emphasizing that it must serve the team. In training, allow unstructured time for freestyle drills, then incorporate those moves into pressured scenarios. For instance, after a backheel flick, the player must immediately run to support a teammate.
Nutrition and Conditioning: The Foundation
Pogba's durability (despite some injury-prone seasons) is built on careful conditioning. His training regimen includes high-intensity interval running, plyometrics, and core work. His diet is rich in lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and hydration. Amateur players can adopt similar routines: 20 minutes of bodyweight exercises (planks, squats, lunges) three times a week, combined with sprints of varying distances. This builds the explosive power needed for shielding and shooting. Also, sleep and recovery are paramount—Pogba reportedly sleeps 8–9 hours per night and uses cryotherapy. While not all can afford that, consistent rest improves decision-making speed.
Mental Toughness and Leadership
Pogba has faced immense criticism throughout his career, yet he continues to perform on big stages. His mental resilience is as important as his physical skills. Players can build this through visualization techniques—imagining executing perfect volleys or escaping pressure. Pre-game routines, like deep breathing and positive self-talk, help maintain focus. In training, simulate high-pressure penalties or last-minute scenarios where one mistake costs the game. This prepares the mind for real matches.
By studying Paul Pogba's techniques and applying these drills, any soccer player can improve their strength, shielding, creativity, and finishing. The beauty of soccer lies in its simplicity: a ball, some space, and the will to learn. Whether you're a weekend warrior or an aspiring professional, these skills will elevate your game. Start with the basics, be patient, and let the flair emerge naturally.
Source: MSN News