Jeremy Jacquet has enjoyed a brilliant start to life at Liverpool following his summer move to Anfield, although his choice of role model might raise a few eyebrows
Paris, France - October 2: Jeremy Jacquet of France looks on during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between France and Italy at Stade de France on October 2, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Tnani Badreddine/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
Jeremy Jacquet has named a former Manchester United star as his hero(Image: Getty Images)
Jeremy Jacquet has revealed he still considers Paul Pogba as his hero, even after joining Liverpool in the summer.
The young defender has made a superb start to life at Anfield, having established himself as Virgil van Dijk’s new center-back partner following the exit of Ibrahima Konate, while his performances have earned him rave reviews from the likes of Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville.
Not only that, but he has now earned international recognition, with Zinedine Zidane calling him up for his first squad as France manager. Jacquet has taken the chance firmly with both hands, having been lavished with praise for his debut against Belgium and his first home game against Italy.
Jacquet has already made himself a firm fans’ favorite on Merseyside thanks to his performances, although his choice of role model might raise eyebrows among some Liverpool supporters.
In an interview with Telefoot, the 21-year-old — who started out as a midfielder before moving into defense — named Pogba as his idol. The 33-year-old of course had two stints at Liverpool’s biggest rival, although he failed to live up to a record-breaking price tag during his second spell with Manchester United.
Nevertheless, Jacquet continues to worship the midfielder, admitting: "That hasn't changed. I watched every one of his matches every week."
Paul Pogba
Jeremy Jacquet has named Paul Pogba as his hero(Image: Getty Images)
His love for Pogba doesn’t change what has been a brilliant start for him at Liverpool, where he has been able to learn from another of his heroes.
"Liverpool? Things moved very quickly. We have a good squad, so everything is going well,” Jacquet added. "Van Dijk? Playing alongside him is amazing. Few defenders have reached his level."
Jacquet will be hoping to add a third cap before the end of the international break when France faces Belgium again on Monday.
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The former Rennes star is still pinching himself after making his home debut for his country on Friday, with his hard work over the years - not just at Liverpool - paying off.
"It’s a pure joy. I didn’t expect so much noise in the stadium,” Jacquet said on his first home game with France.
“I used to watch the matches on TV; now I’m part of them. It’s going well, though there’s room for improvement. I’m happy with these first two caps. I’ve always been a calm player on the ball—I just play my game.
"Years of hardship—I haven't had an easy life. So, right now, I’m happy. I’ve had back and knee issues, but I try to look straight ahead. I’m playing for my nation, my country, and under the guidance of Zinedine Zidane."