Zlatan Ibrahimovic has launched a passionate defence of Paul Pogba, insisting that the Manchester United midfielder’s critics are just jealous of him.

The 25-year-old’s performances for Manchester United have been the subject of much debate in recent months, with most people agreeing that the midfielder is yet to truly hit top gear for the Red Devils.

Pogba helped France to claim a 2-1 win over Australia in their opening World Cup game on Saturday and the midfielder will be hoping to play a key role for his nation at this summer’s tournament.

Ibrahimovic played alongside Pogba at Manchester United before his eventual transfer to MLS side LA Galaxy back in the January window.

And the veteran Swedish forward has insisted that he is fully backing Pogba to come good for both club and country in the years to come.

Speaking in an interview with beIN Sports, Ibrahimovic said: “I know him very well. I don’t read a lot of media but I see a lot of critics against him.

“Obviously when you make so much money as he does, if you cost so much money, people will criticise you out of jealousy, out of just having an opinion.”

Manchester United will be aiming to challenge for the Premier League title next season after their campaign of disappointment ended without a trophy last term.

The Red Devils finished in second place in the Premier League table and were beaten by Chelsea FC in the FA Cup final last month.

MORE: Latest Manchester United news and views

MORE: Football transfer rumours and gossip

The post Zlatan Ibrahimovic Leaps to defence of Man United star appeared first on The Sport Review.