Antonio Conte says he believes that it was Paul Pogba’s ‘dream’ to return to Manchester United this summer.
The Chelsea boss signed the midfielder from the Red Devils on a free transfer when he was Juventus manager in 2012.
France midfielder Pogba then went on to become one of the most highly-rated players in the game and sealed a £89million return to Old Trafford in the summer.
And Conte believes that his former charge is deserving of all the plaudits that have come his way and the world record fee which the Red Devils paid for his services.
“He deserves all,” said Conte. “I think to come back to Manchester United was his dream. I wish him the best, but only after the game.”
The 23-year-old netted twice in last night’s 4-1 Europa League win over Fernerbahce as he turned in one of his best displays since returning to his former club.
But the Italian also insisted that his tactical set-up will not just focus on stopping his old friend.
“We must pay attention to the whole team,” he said. “United have a lot of great players.”
The Blues currently sit in fifth place in the Premier League, following their 3-0 win over champions Leicester City last time out.
The Red Devils have won only once in the league since September, but a win in Jose Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge will see them overtake their rivals.
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