See What Cristiano Ronaldo Revealed About Paul Pogba After His Departure Was Confirmed

 As Manchester United's season unraveled, Pogba was said to be one of the few players who earned Cristiano Ronaldo's respect.

On Wednesday, it was confirmed that the Frenchman had left Old Trafford after his contract had expired. For much of the season, he had consistently angered United fans with his on-field performances and off-field antics, with his departure appearing all but likely.

His last outing was in April, when he was forced off injured in a horrific beating at the hands of Liverpool. While United fans may have been relieved to see him go, he appears to have remained popular in the Old Trafford dressing room.

Pogba 'commanded major respect' from Ronaldo, who returned to United last summer, according to The Athletic. During the former's final season at the club, the two are reported to have formed a close bond.

Ronaldo even went so far as to say that he 'wishes' he could have played with Pogba while at Real Madrid. The attacker's desire to play with the World Cup winner is said to stem from his passing ability's 'variety and quality.'

Pogba lobbied Ronaldo to be more constructive when giving feedback to younger players as a result of their friendship. Ronaldo became increasingly frustrated with United's inexperienced players, expressing his displeasure in public on several occasions.

Pogba, on the other hand, appears to have taken it upon himself to persuade Ronaldo to be more of a leader to those players. Despite only appearing in 11 Premier League games during his tenure, Pogba is said to have 'gotten along' with interim manager Ralf Rangnick after a 'productive' meeting early on.

Pogba's efforts to mediate between the various groups within what had become a fractured dressing room were also 'valued' by the Germans, according to reports. Pogba and Rangnick, on the other hand, have both left Old Trafford.

The most likely move for Pogba is a return to Juventus, where he previously spent four successful years. United posted a lengthy farewell message on their website to announce Pogba's exit, thanking him for his efforts across his two spells at the club