Paul Pogba insists you can't hate N'Golo Kante but revealed he is a serial cheater when it comes to matters away from the pitch.
The midfield pair have teamed up to devastating affect for France, helping them to World Cup success in 2018.
Their contrasting styles has allowed Pogba to express himself on the international stage, but the Manchester United star has opened up on his "cunning" ways when it comes to card and board games.
He told beIN Sports : "He cheats a lot. A lot. At card games, board games. Honestly, I'm telling the truth. He cheats.
"He says he doesn't cheat, but he does. He uses cunning. He's a smart kid, N'Golo. But it's okay. You have to love him.
"He's the most beloved soccer player in the history of football. You've got to love him, you cannot hate him, it is not possible.
"He is humble, kind, professional. He will never complain, he will work."
Kante has been back to his best in recent weeks with successive Champions League man of the match awards in Chelsea's semi-final win over Real Madrid.
His constant energy in the middle of the pitch is a huge plus with Pogba hailing his abilities.
"He's got everything. He's good technically, with a good passing quality, and he's everywhere on the pitch," said the United star.
"I even say he appears out of the ground! You don't see him, and - poof - he's out! He gets the ball, he has the finish. He's everywhere.
"To have a player like that by your side, what more can you ask for?"
Pogba himself is still dealing with an uncertain future beyond this season as his Old Trafford contract winds down.
United's hierarchy are not prepared to be held to ransom but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is desperate to keep hold of the player.
