Pogba’s brother Florentin seeks ‘new challenge’ in India after joining ATKMB | Football News – Times of India

Florentin Pogba (Getty Images)

KOLKATA: A Pogba is coming to play for a Kolkata club.
No, it’s not Paul Pogba, who is rumoured to end his long association with Manchester United when his contract with the Premier League club is set to expire at the end of this month. It’s his brother — Florentin Pogba — who has committed himself to playing in Indian football.
In a major transfer coup, ATK Mohun Bagan made it official on Saturday that Florentin, a defender, will join Juan Ferrando’s side from France’s second division (Ligue 2) side FC Sochaux-Montbéliard on a two-year contract.
“I’m coming to India for a new challenge in my career. It’s a new country, new championship and an opportunity to know many new clubs,” Florentin said in a statement issued by the city club.
“I’ve heard a lot about the Indian Super League from legendary French footballers Nicolas Anelka and Roberto Pires, who have played here. I’ve been informed that football is very popular here… I’ll try to make my experience count and help the team win the trophy,” the 31-year-old, who plays as a defender, said.
31-year-old Paul Pogba also wished his brother on his new journey. “@FlorentinPogba, I wish you all the best at your new club, ATK Mohun Bagan FC,” the French World Cup winner wrote on his Instagram account.
Born in Guinea, Florentin was brought up in France and made his Ligue 1 debut while playing for AS Saint-Etienne in 2012. He also had the experience of playing in the USA and Turkey.
Although he is carrying a famous surname, the ATKMB management feels his inclusion in the team is a well-calculated move.
“Florentin is the type of a player who is focused and ready to come out of his comfort zone and give his best. He can take part in the attack from the back and is capable of delivering key passes for the forwards,” ATKMB’s Spanish coach Ferrando said.
After announcing the departure of Fijian striker Roy Krishna, Ferrando is rejigging his defensive line for the upcoming season. Florentin has now become the second overseas defender to join his side after Australia’s Brandan Hamill.
The latest acquisitions have been made following the departure of veteran defender Prabir Das to Bengaluru FC. Sources in the team have also indicated that the two foreign defenders’ arrival may also put pressure on India centre-back Sandesh Jhingan.