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Fred turned down Man City for Mourinho

Cape Town - Brazilian midfielder Fred has revealed that the key factor in his decision to join Manchester United was to play under Jose Mourinho.

The 25-year-old has signed for the Red Devils from Shakhtar Donetsk, where he was an integral figure during his five-year stay.

A former Internacional midfielder, the ambitious midfielder explained his reason for moving to the United, when he had an offer from Manchester City.

Speaking after the club's shock 2-1 defeat of Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday night, Fred spoke to FourFourTwo.

He said: "That's true, I received an offer from them [City] and even talked to my Brazilian team-mates who play for our neighbours.

"They were trying to convince me to join them, but in the end, it didn't happen. Then it was the summer and, as I said, there were other offers, including from United. I quickly decided that was the right move for me.

"Mourinho is a top, top professional and every player likes to work with such a winner. I'm learning things from him, that's for sure. He can be quite strict, but that's part of his job.

"He's also friendly and funny off the pitch and jokes with us in the dressing room. Jose was crucial in my decision to join Manchester United and I'm grateful for his interest in my football."

United face their city rivals at the Etihad on Sunday.

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