Fred will be big success at Old Trafford says Willian
Willian has backed Brazil team-mate Fred to be a major success at Manchester United and said he is moving to “one of the best teams in the world”.
Midfielder Fred is set to join Jose Mourinho’s side for next season after a transfer in excess of £50million was agreed with Shakhtar Donetsk yesterday.
Chelsea forward Willian, who is currently on international duty with the 25-yearold ahead of the World Cup, believes he has a bright future and will make the grade in England.
“Of course, no doubt, no doubt about that,” replied Willian when asked if Fred will thrive in the Premier League.
“He has a lot of quality. He can improve a lot. He goes to one of the best teams in the world and I’m happy for him. I hope he does well at Manchester United.”
In addition to their national team connections, the pair were both introduced to European football in Ukraine. Willian spent five-and-a-half years with Shakhtar before leaving in January 2013 for a short spell with Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala, while Fred arrived in Donetsk from Brazilian side Internacional five months later.
Willian said he has given advice to Fred about playing in England but insists both men are fully focused on the World Cup ahead of their country’s final warm-up friendly against Austria on Sunday.
Willian’s own future in club football appears to be in doubt amid speculation he wants to leave Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old, who has scored eight times in 55 international appearances, felt last season was a good one personally, but was coy about his plans after the summer.
Willian said: “I don’t have any more to say about my club because now I want to have focus here with the national team on the World Cup.”