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Man Utd transfer news: Andreas Pereira reveals why he defied Jose Mourinho for Valencia
MANCHESTER UNITED star Andreas Pereira has explained his decision to defy Jose Mourinho and join Valencia last summer.
Andreas Pereira returns to Manchester United for training
Manchester United star Pereira joined Valencia on loan a year ago in a decision that irked Mourinho.
The Red Devils boss said at the time: "Andreas Pereira was a personal decision that I don't agree with.
"A decision I don't think honestly is the best decision for him, a decision that disappoints me a little bit, because I think he has the potential to be here fighting for a position, for opportunities, and fighting to be a Manchester United player.”
But Pereira has now explained why he chose to leave Manchester United, telling the National: “United now have a better player because I went to Valencia.
"I played more minutes than I would have played at United.
”At Valencia I was playing a high level every week and I improved a lot. I was under pressure in a good way, I played in a team which played very good football with an explosive counter attack."
Pereira also paid tribute to Mourinho for keeping in regular contact, despite his decision angering the United boss.
"I’m more mature for my experience of being there," he said.
"I read the game faster now. I prepare for the games better, I know my body better and know what I can do.
“I don’t make the mistakes I was making before. I’m getting better all the time."
"Jose Mourinho was always in touch and sending me messages. It was nice that he kept in touch with me and showed that he had faith in me.
“I want to repay that faith. I think I can make the step now to play every week at Manchester United."
Pereira has impressed on United’s pre-season tour and scored a stunning free-kick as they lost 4-1 to Liverpool on Saturday night.