Just like the Portuguese press said when reporting the news, José Mourinho had a big part in Joel Pereira’s loan deal with Vitória de Setúbal.
It was the Manchester United manager who suggested the signing to the Portuguese club, and now the goalkeeper himself has revealed the influence the boss had in the move.
“Before coming here I talked a lot with Mr Mourinho, with his assistant Ricardo Formosinho and also with Silvino Louro, the goalkeeper coach, who are also from Setúbal and represented Vitória at the highest level,” said Pereira (via O Jogo).
“Their opinion was very important to me because they know the club and the people who work here. We all felt it could be an important step in my growth as a player. José Mourinho told me that I was going to a big club, where I would be very happy.”
Pereira went on the preseason tour with Manchester United in the United States, and had to rush to Portugal so he could be present at Vitória’s squad presentation.
“I almost didn’t sleep… but I didn’t want to miss the presentation game. I didn’t even think twice. I felt special affection when they announced my name. Now it’s my turn to reciprocate.”
The goalkeeper has also made sure to say that his intention is to return to England, where football is “another reality”.
“Sometimes it’s necessary to take a step back and then take two steps forward and achieve success. The passion with which people see football there is significant. Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world, there is a lot of pressure on the players and we have to be prepared.”
