Brazilian journalist Venê Casagrande has been watching Andreas Pereira feature for Flamengo over the last 12 months, so we asked him to give us the lowdown on our new recruit.
What sort of player do Fulham have in Andreas Pereira?
Andreas Pereira, in the days of Flamengo, proved to be a versatile athlete, knowing how to play as a defensive midfielder, and as a midfielder. A player with a lot of categories, accurate game vision, and a finish that many attackers envy.
How did he get on during his time with Flamengo?
Overall, Andreas Pereira did very well. Very much so. In one year of Flamengo, only a small period was considered reserve, about one month, but it always did the trick. I believe that the failure in the Libertadores final [Flamengo lost 2-1 to Palmeiras after extra-time] weighed heavily, but he is a great athlete on and off the field. A rare player to find in the market. I really liked what I saw up close for that year.
He had four loan spells during his time with Manchester United – do you think it will benefit him having a permanent club?
I believe he learned more every time he was borrowed. In each club he learned something, I have no doubt. I believe that Andreas arrives at Fulham having his best moment, the peak of his career. Great hire.
Do you think it’s a good move for the player, swapping United for Fulham?
I have no doubt that it will be good for Andreas, and also for Fulham. He will have the chance to play, probably as a starter, in the best league in the world. He will also work with a Portuguese coach, which helps in communication due to the language, in addition to learning (a lot) with Marco Silva. At Manchester United, he would have no space and would likely be loaned out again.
Have you met him before?
I had the opportunity to ask him some questions after some matches at Maracanã and also on his arrival in Rio de Janeiro, after I reported first hand his arrival at Flamengo. A polite and caring person.
How much will he suit Marco Silva’s style?
Andreas is a versatile player. He can work in a variety of ways in the midfield. I believe this will be very useful to coach Marco Silva. But I think Andreas is more of a 'box to box' steering wheel.
What do you think Andreas, and Fulham, can achieve this season?
It's hard to talk about a Premier League title. But Fulham and Andreas can dream of high-flying this season.
Are we gaining any new fans from Rio, now we have two former Flamengo players…
Haha! I even started to support Fulham and follow the team more after the arrival of Rodrigo Muniz. Now, with Andreas, I will have one more reason to cheer and follow. I believe that many Flamengo fans think the same. Good luck to Fulham, Andreas and Rodrigo Muniz for the season. A hug also to Marco Silva. A great coach.
