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Manchester United midfielder Fred says he is feeling settled at Old Trafford after enduring a difficult start to his career at the club.
The 27-year-old was a man in demand with United boss Jose Mourinho and Man City chief Pep Guardiola both vying for his signature two years ago.
The Brazilian decided to choose United and Mourinho and joined from Shakhtar Donetsk for £52 million in the summer of 2018.
However, it looked as though Guardiola had dodged a bullet for 12 months with Fred struggling to adapt to life in England after starting just 13 of United's league games last season.
"I believe the first season was very difficult for me," Fred told Sky Sports. "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.
"So, I believe it was a mix of reasons that made me have an awful first season. Anyway, I'm definitely settled in every aspect now."
Fred confirms that Guardiola was itching to get him on board at The Etihad, but he opted to team up with Mourinho.
"Yes, I was obviously very happy with the interest of some of the best managers in the world," added Fred.
"Guardiola is a great manager, but I chose to join another great manager, Mourinho, at United.
"It was a contest between two great managers, and I could only be delighted with that. It was very important for me, as it would have been for any player. It was something that made me really happy."
Fred has seen a dramatic upturn in his form and says he has been "delighted" with the season after starting the last 22 league games.
"I've been enjoying some good performances and have had the chance to play a long run of games. That was also helpful. I'm delighted with this season," Fred said.
"I'm now playing well and hopefully I can keep the momentum if the league returns. I just want to give my best for this club, trying to be a key part of the team.
"We have a lot of goals for this and coming seasons - we want to win trophies. Hopefully, we can keep the momentum when football returns."
- TEAMtalk media
