In a World Cup year, Brazilian legend Rivaldo has been particularly active as of late while asked for his expert opinion on a variety of topics. Among them have been Neymar’s potential move to Real Madrid, the qualities of who the 2002 winner deems to be the Premier League’s best player in Mo Salah, and now his evaluation of compatriot Fred.
Given that the midfielder has only plied his trade in Brazil and the backwaters of the Ukrainian Premier League, there has naturally been scorn poured upon the €55mn spent by Manchester United on a player unknown to many in Britain and even in his native land, where he spent just two years at Internacional before heading to Europe.
Rivaldo though is confident of the 25-year-old’s abilities and heaped praise on the ex-Shakthar Donetsk star. “He’s a good player and a brilliant midfielder” began the Barcelona icon. “He’ll do well and be good for Manchester United. Likewise, the club will be very good for him” affirmed the former Ballon d’Or king.
Fully aware of the pressures of making the switch to Europe’s big leagues after being of a similar age as Fred when bought from Palmeiras by Deportivo La Coruna in the mid-1990’s, Rivaldo stressed the importance of allowing the Russia 2018 squad member time to find his feet. “He’s a marvellous player. But like any athlete that moves to another country, he needs a little time to adapt” commented the 46-year-old.
Handed the number 18 shirt for the tournament, Fred will struggle to force his way into the Seleção’s World Cup first XI given stiff competition from Casemiro and Fernandinho in the middle of the park. Should he continue his upwards trajectory in the northwest of England however, United’s marquee signing thus far for the impending 2018/2019 season is likely to be an integral part of Brazil’s Qatar 2022 side.
