Jose Mourinho says Fred is not a direct replacement for Michael Carrick, but adds the Brazil ace could be a key player in Manchester United’s midfield this season.
The playmaker joined the Red Devils from Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk last month for £52.5million ($70m).
He is yet to feature for United in pre-season after World Cup duty with the Brazilian national team.
The 25-year-old will be a welcome addition to United’s midfield this term following the departure of Michael Carrick, who retired at the end of last season to take up a coaching role at the club.