Andreas Pereira: ‘My dream is to play for Manchester United’
Instead of opting to fight for his place at Manchester United, midfielder Andreas Pereira opted for a loan move to La Liga side Valencia.
Pereira has been fantastic for Valencia thus far, and rumors were circulating that he may snub a return to Manchester United when his loan expires.
The Belgian-born Brazilian was recently interviewed by ESPN FC where shared his thoughts on his season so far and his visions for the future.
Pereira defended his decision to move out on loan, stating that obtaining more playing time was the greatest factor.
"“I wasn’t going to be a starting player at United this season. I felt that by coming here I would play more minutes,” he added. “By playing I’ll get better, I’ll evolve."
The attacking midfielder has enjoyed his time on loan, and feels like he’s become an overall better player.
"“Here, I’m playing, I’m happy and I’m getting better. People see that, United see that, and it will help me, Valencia and Manchester United. If I go back then I’ll be a better player. I’m under pressure here, but in a positive way.”"
Rumors have swirled in recent weeks that Pereira has enjoyed his time in Spain so much that he could make a permanent switch to Valencia. However, the 21-year said his dreams still lie in England.
“I want to be playing,” Pereira stated. “I want to keep developing, keep progressing and keep doing well at a high level, the highest level I can.
“…United has always been my dream and it will always be my dream.”
“I want to be important at a big club. United has always been my dream and it will always be my dream.”
There’s no doubt that Pereira is a future star. His performances for United this summer in the United States put his abilities on display for everyone to witness.
Fans were obviously dismayed when he opted for a move to Valencia, but there is an option for him to be recalled in January.
During Paul Pogba’s two-month absence, United lacked the creativity out of the middle that they so desperately needed. Had Pereira have stayed, he could have proven his worth by stepping up.
The 21-year old has grinded his way through the loan system. Like Jesse Lingard, he too could become a fan favorite should he stay with the Red Devils.
He should have been given a larger role by Jose Mourinho. And with Marouane Fellaini looking like he could move on in January, the Red’s could desperately use Pereira.
Juan Mata and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are both not getting any younger. Pereira could by United’s No. 10 of the future. He possesses all of the qualities needed, and he’s only continuing to get better.
However, United fans have to worry. The rumors of him leaving the club are persistent and it is evident he is enjoying life in Spain. One could only hope to avoid another Pogba situation.
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He’s a player United could use — so maybe it’s time that the club brings him back now for free, than for a massive transfer in the years to come.