10 Players to Watch at the 2018 World Cup

Group C: Paul Pogba

Country: France

Club Team: Manchester United

Age: 25

One of the more polarizing figures in world football, Paul Pogba will be eager to cast aside his role at Manchester United and return to the international stage. With his relationship with Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho dominating the media this season, it can be easy to forget just how talented Pogba is. His combination of size, speed, creativity, and foot skills is second to none, and they earned him the Best Young Player Award at the 2014 World Cup. Now four years older and much more experienced, Pogba is ready to take the next step this summer.

Surrounded by an unbelievably talented France squad, Pogba is capable of dominating in Russia and reminding the world why Manchester United broke their transfer record to sign him two years ago. With a signature flair and personality made for the spotlight, Pogba fits perfectly with the demands of the World Cup.

However, France have shown a tendency in the past to self destruct, evidenced by their group stage elimination from the 2010 World Cup. With some already questioning manager Didier Deschamps' squad selection, getting off to a strong start will be key for Pogba and France.

Thankfully, France's first match is against Australia, and our metrics give them a 75.92% chance of beating the Socceroos. After that, things get tougher with Peru and Denmark -- two teams inside the top 12 in the FIFA world rankings -- rounding out Group C.

As an established star, this summer is a chance for Pogba to ascend to the true elite of world football and finally put to rest any doubts over his ability. For France, nothing short of a title will suffice, and at 6.93% odds to lift the trophy, we give them the fifth-best chance of anyone in the tournament.

What to Expect: