Fred blames private life for ‘awful’ first season
FRED has blamed his ‘awful’ first season at United on personal issues in his private life that were affecting his performances.
The £52m Brazilian struggled to settle in last term and produced a string of poor displays.
When his return to pre-season training last summer was delayed by his wedding a repeat was feared, but Fred has been one of United’s standout players this season, with his improvement rapid.
Now the 27-year-old has explained why he struggled so much in his first season in Manchester.
“I believe the first season was very difficult for me. There was the process of settling down here, but also other personal things that were happening in my life, such as the birth of my son,” Fred said.
“So I believe it was a mix of reasons that made me have an awful first season.”
Those difficulties are a distant memory now, with Fred a key member of the United midfield this season.
A run of games has been vital in helping the former Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder settle into the side and he’s determined to keep his good form going if the season can resume.
United were unbeaten in 11 games when the action was halted due to the coronavirus pandemic, with the gap to Chelsea in fourth closing to just three points as a result of those recent performances.
“I’m definitely settled in every aspect now,” Fred said. “I’ve been enjoying some good performances and the chance of playing a great sequence of games. That was also helpful. I’m delighted with this season.”