Jose Mourinho confirmed Paul Pogba has been stripped of the vice-captaincy at Manchester United, but insists they have not fallen out.
Reports began to circulate prior to United's disappointing 8-7 penalty shoot-out defeat to Derby County in the EFL Cup on Tuesday that Pogba – who was rested – had been relieved of the role.
The French World Cup-winner had captained United three times this season in the absence of Antonio Valencia, including the Premier League opener against Leicester City.
Mourinho's decision to give Pogba the armband on that occasion came hard on the heels of suggestions Barcelona were pressing to sign the 25-year-old.
But the midfielder has made several comments which some have considered to be veiled digs at Mourinho this season, the latest coming following the 1-1 draw with Wolves on Saturday, and the Portuguese confirmed reports of the change after the Derby clash.
He told Sky Sports: "The only truth is that I made the decision of Pogba not to be the second captain anymore. [There was] no fall out.
"The person who made the decision to be second captain was also me. It's just one decision which I don't have to explain."
After United's win over Leicester, Pogba claimed he would be fined if he commented on his situation at the club, while he also conceded his attitude was not right in the 3-2 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion.
Pogba's latest comments on Monday saw him question Mourinho's tactics, as he implored United to "attack, attack, attack" when playing at home, though he is adamant his remarks were misrepresented.
Media reports have claimed Pogba will not demand a move away from United in January, though he is said to be ready to consider his options again at the end of the campaign.
