Manchester United and Brazil midfielder Fred concluded a two-game trip away with his national team with a hairdo switch up, as players called up on June international duties are slowly starting to disperse around the world for their summer breaks.
Gradually entering cult hero status at Old Trafford, Fred had his best season yet for United last term. The energetic midfielder scored four goals and added six assists in all competitions in what was his second best attacking return in a decade.
The last time United’s No. 17 hit those types of numbers was back in his home land when representing Sport Club Internacional (12 G/A) in 2012.
Stacking up goal contributions has quite simply never been Fred’s job. Last season for United, it was just a welcome bonus.
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After being utilised as a traditional holding midfielder — or a ‘6’ — for large parts of his three year stay at United so far, the Brazilian was given more of a box to box role, particularly after the turn of the calendar under Ralf Rangnick.
Though his passing sometimes leaves a lot to be desired, Fred visibly picked up confidence and became a stalwart in a limping United side.
His consistency and commitment to the cause even resulted in some Player of the Season shouts from the Reds faithful, as well as most improved mentions.
Fred has distinctive qualities that are difficult to replicate or find for reasonable prices in the modern market. Now, he also has a haircut of similar ilk to boot.
The 29-year-old’s tenacity, agility and calculated aggression in midfield proved really valuable for United in a season where they lost the bulk of their midfield battles.
Fred is certainly not a player who will run a midfield by himself, but paired next to someone of Frenkie De Jong’s quality, the Brazilian could be a major asset in Erik ten Hag’s engine room.
Most impressively, Fred was in the 92nd percentile in pressures per 90 (24.56) in his position last season, per FBRef. He was also in the 91st percentile in blocks with 2.16 per 90. His attacking improvement was emphasized by 57 shot creating actions and eight goal creating actions on record.
The midfielder added 1.94 interceptions and 2.96 tackles per 90 to show exactly what he brings to the table in a midfield that will be expected to be aggressive and more controlling next season.
Under ten Hag, United will want to put their stamp on games more — especially if De Jong does put pen to paper on an Old Trafford switch as reported.
With that, Fred’s qualities will come in very useful, particularly out of possession — trying to win the ball back as quickly as possible.
The former Shakhtar man seems to have one of the more secure places in the squad for when August rolls around. He ends his stint with Brazil this month having played 71 minutes in a 1-0 win against Japan and 81 mins in a 5-1 win against South Korea.
Topics: Fred, Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Football, Premier League
Arion Armeniakos