Andreas Pereira had a bigger impact on Lazio’s fanbase via his social media activity than he did on the pitch, something pointed out by the Italian media on repeat occasions over the past season.
Arriving from Manchester United, the player never really settled and didn’t show enough to make Lazio consider signing him permanently, but did win fans by embracing Lazio on Instagram.
The €27m buying clause was never going to be used, unless the 25-year-old suddenly morphed into Lazio’s own Bruno Fernandes.
Starting just 8% of the club’s Serie A matches, Pereira accumulated 801 minutes in total across all competitions. During that time he scored one goal and added four assists, but was never able to fully convince.
If the media around Lazio are to be believed, the Rome club aren’t going to make any attempt for a permanent signing. Corriere dello Sport are just one of those to report the player won’t be signed fully and is therefore on his way back to Manchester United.
It’s unlikely he has a meaningful future at Old Trafford, and with a contract lasting until June 2023 it would surely be beneficial for all if a permanent new home can be found.
