Andreas Pereira has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo told him to ‘be relentless’ and stay focused if he is to succeed at Manchester United.
The 19 year old Brazilian is one of the brightest prospects that Man United has produced in a long time, and has shown glimpses of his potential during a number of fine performances off the bench during this season.
He praised Ronaldo after a conversation with the ex-Manchester United star.
"I’m a Cristiano Ronaldo fan and once I got to talk to him. he told me to grow in Manchester, to train very hard, to be relentless. That was the advice he gave to me. Training every day, sometimes even on off days."
In spite of speculation that the teenager was on the radar of Paris St-Germain, Pereira penned a new three year contract last season with Louis Van Gaal insisting the youngster has "all the attributes to become an integral part of the first team."
Speaking on his progression and his motivation to succeed, Pereira was adamant that he is determined to fight for his place;
He said: "My goal is to stay here, to try and win my place at United. But if I happen to have the option to go out on loan and do what Januzaj is doing and gain experience in another team, no problem, I will. I’m working hard, giving my best. I’m waiting for the right moment. I have to be patient.
"United are a massive club and to be part of it is an honour. The Premier League is very competitive, the English are very passionate about football. It’s a challenge to be here, and today I am more adapted to the style. My background is in Dutch football. Between ourselves [he and Van Gaal] we speak Dutch. I think it helps. But I’m a fighter and maybe he likes that profile."
It is perhaps pertinent Pereira cited team-mate Adnan Januzaj’s loan move to Borussia Dortmund, The United attacker left Old Trafford to gain invaluable experience playing week in week out.
Despite the Brazilian’s voracious determination to breakthrough into the first team as soon as possible. He has the likes of Juan Mata, Memphis Depay, Ander Herrera and not least captain Wayne Rooney all able to play in the attacking midfield role which may block his path right now.
