MANCHESTER United midfielder Andreas Pereira says loan spells at Spanish sides Granada and Valencia over the last two seasons have been crucial to his improved performances at the Premier League club.

Pereira, a product of Manchester United’s youth system, is yet to have a breakthrough campaign at the club but he featured in the team’s pre-season fixtures ahead of the current season.

The performance has so far earned the 22-year-old praise from manager Jose Mourinho.

The Brazilian however said he rejected Mourinho’s advice to stay at Manchester United last year to join Valencia on a loan move instead and the decision has now paid off.

“It was very difficult for me to take that decision.

“Like, Mourinho is one of the best coaches in the world and he tells you to stay, and if you go against it you’ve only got things to lose in your head really.

“I was nervous about that, but it came out well. We had a great year in Valencia.

“I am a better player, and this season he has a better Andreas than he could have had last year,” Pereira said on Friday.

Pereira’s pre-season exploits led to him starting Manchester United’s league opening 2-1 win over Leicester City last Friday.

The Brazilian will now be hoping to keep his place as the Old Trafford outfit travel to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.(Reuters/NAN)

– Aug. 17, 2018 @ 17:09 GMT |