Sir Alex Ferguson 's former right-hand man has labelled Paul Pogba a "major disappointment" in a withering verdict on Manchester United 's record signing.
Rene Meulensteen, who spent six years as a first-team coach under the legendary manager, believes the club's midfield is unfit for purpose and Pogba is to blame.
Meulensteen witnessed the Frenchman make his senior debut for United in 2011 before he joined Juventus on a free transfer the following summer.
Pogba spent four fruitful years with the Italian giants, winning six major honours and establishing himself as one of Europe's most sought-after players.
He returned to Old Trafford in a £89million transfer in the summer of 2016 and has gone on to make 212 appearances for the Red Devils while also lifting two trophies.
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Pogba struck a career-best 16 goals during the 2018/19 campaign but a loss of form and injuries have led to a significant decline in performances in subsequent seasons.
Meulensteen claims the World Cup winner has failed to "lift United" as a player of his price tag and reputation should have.
The Dutchman also believes the stark lack of quality in Ralf Rangnick's midfield is preventing the club from competing for the Premier League or Champions League.
"I don't know what has gone wrong there. It has been a major disappointment," Meulensteen told The Sun of Pogba.
"Maybe because he was in a great Juventus team it was easier to shine but he hasn't been able to lift United.
"It needs someone like him in the midfield as I don't believe Scott McTominay and Fred have all that United need to be challenging again."
United's midfield has often been criticised this season, with the partnership of McTominay and Fred facing particular scrutiny.
There are concerns the duo do not offer enough protection for the defence while also failing to contribute on the front foot.
Pogba's defensive work has also been in the spotlight, although he has been out of action for some time.
The United academy graduate suffered a groin injury during November's international break and he is yet to return to action.
Pogba - who is out of contract this summer - started the season in blistering form with seven assists in four Premier League fixtures, but he has not contributed to a goal since then.
His last appearance in the top flight came in the humiliating 5-0 defeat by Liverpool, during which he came off the bench at half-time and was sent off after 15 minutes.
United interim manager Rangnick hopes to have Pogba available in early February and recently declared the player is in "very promising" condition.
