Manchester United’s search for their next Michael Carrick could be a short one, with Andreas Pereira revealing that the former United midfielder is trying to teach him the position.
Carrick finally called time on his illustrious playing career at the end of last season, a career in which he has won every trophy available to him in club football.
Last season’s summer signing Nemanja Matic seemed to be the direct replacement for Carrick, although, at 31, there won’t be too many years left at the top from the Serbian.
However, one man who could be more of a long-term replacement in the heart of the Manchester United midfield is Brazilian midfielder Andreas Pereira, who has spent the last two seasons out on loan in La Liga with Granada and Valencia respectively.
Pereira has returned to United this summer and was instantly thrust into a deep-lying midfield role by Jose Mourinho during his side’s first pre-season game against Mexican side Club America earlier this week.
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Now, Pereira has revealed that Michael Carrick is trying to teach him the role of the number six, having spent most of his youth career playing as a more attacking and creative player:
“The manager asked me what position I will play and I said I will play any position he would like,” said Pereira.
“Now I’m in this position as a number six. I’ll try to do my best and of course, everyone is helping me a lot, including the manager, by telling me what to do.
“Michael Carrick is also helping me in every training session and it’s very important. It’s not only them but all of the other coaches as well.
“They’re helping me a lot and I’m learning new things every day.
“Michael was one of the best in the world and one of the best that Manchester United ever had.
“He gives me tips, he tells me in training what to do and it’s very easy when he tells you.
“You pick it up straight away and it’s very easy to learn from him.”