Billed as one of the signings of the summer upon his arrival, the Brazilian midfielder has only shown glimpses of his true ability at Old Trafford
He was one of the summer's hottest transfer properties. A veteran of Shakhtar Donetsk's Champions League campaign and a tough but stylish central midfielder, Fred had his pick of both Manchester clubs when the moment came to step up to football's elite.
Just like with Alexis Sanchez, it was United who prevailed in their transfer tussle with neighbours City. And just like with Alexis, it is City who must now feel relieved they missed out on a player who has proven hopelessly ineffective at Old Trafford.