Andreas Pereira broke into Manchester United’s first team in 2014, but he lacked regular opportunities which is why he went out on loan for two seasons between 2016 and 2018, to Granada and Valencia.
Things improved for the 23-year-old after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took charge a year ago. Under the Norwegian’s guidance, he made 36 appearances in all competitions, including 19 this term.
After featuring in a 4-0 win over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League on Tuesday, Pereira was full of praise of his manager.
“He has been fantastic to me on a personal level. Everything I have now, I have him to thank. He has given me playing time and confidence. I feel better and better for every game I play,” he told VG.
After defeat to West Ham United in September, United endured a poor run in October, during which time there were media reports discussing who could replace Solskjaer.
However, United have turned things around since and their recent run of results includes victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City. Pereira gave his thoughts about the media and his teammates’ stance on the former Cardiff City boss.
“I don’t really read the media, because the media only talks a lot of nonsense. Everyone’s behind him. There’s not a single player who wants him out. Everyone loves him at the club. He is very good with everyone,” Pereira adds.
On Solskjaer’s influence on the youngsters, Pereira explained: “He’s important. He knows everyone that comes up through the academy. He knows the club inside and out. It’s huge for the young players.”
The Belgium-born Brazil international signed a new deal in March and his current deal runs down in 2023, with an option to further extend it by a year.
