Now preparing to embark on a third season in the black and white of Fulham, Andreas Pereira has reflected on his choice to cut ties with the 20-time English champions.
Back in 2022, the midfielder bid farewell to Manchester United in hopes of securing increased game time elsewhere, rounding off an 11-year association with the club in the process.
Pereira ultimately opted to stay in the Premier League, despite gaining experience across Europe with Granada, Valencia and Lazio through various loan spells. A move to Craven Cottage was viewed as the most suitable option for him to showcase his talents and, in turn, play an integral role for the newly promoted side – and that he did.
The Carrington graduate saw his maiden term in West London end prematurely due to a broken ankle, but he proceeded to play in 37 out of Fulham’s 38 league matches last term. As a result, he was recalled to the Brazil national team after a six-year absence.
United exit revitalised my career, says Pereira
Speaking to Standard Sport ahead of the new campaign, Pereira reminisced over his United exit and the impact it had on reviving his then-stagnant career.
“I think it was the best decision I made in my life,” he admits. “To come to live and play here, to enjoy my football, to get back into the national team with great players, to enjoy my football in the Premier League, leaving is the best decision I made.
“The time I was there, I really enjoyed being at a fantastic club. But I don’t regret leaving. We [the players in my situation] have this desire to show it was wrong that we didn’t play.
“With everyone’s help around me [at Fulham], I achieved a great season. We started the season by losing a very important player, [Aleksandar] Mitrovic. We had to search for the way we have to play without him. In January, Rodrigo [Muniz] came in, scored all the goals and made my life easier!”
He’ll return to Old Trafford on the opening day of the 2024/2025 league season when the Reds host Fulham at 8pm on Friday, August 16.
