Unrivaled: Fulham Star Andreas Pereira’s Reaction to Brazil Recall
The Rise of Andreas Pereira: From Manchester United to Fulham
As morale-boosters go ahead of your first cap in six years — and against England at Wembley — being bigged up by Gary Lineker ain’t too bad. That is what has happened to Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira, recalled by Brazil for the first time since 2018.
A Chance Encoutner with a Legend: Lineker’s Compliments
He was celebrating the Cottagers’ fine 3-0 win over Spurs at an Italian restaurant on the Fulham Road on Sunday when he bumped into Three Lions legend Lineker. The Match of the Day host was having a meal with some of his sons after seeing Leicester lose 4-2 at Chelsea in the FA Cup quarter-final. And Pereira said: “When I saw him, I went to his table to say hello because I know he is a big legend.”
Andreas Pereira’s Journey: Manchester United to Fulham
Pereira, 28, has been instrumental for Fulham in the Premier League over the last two seasons. He is progressing from the player who wilted under the pressure in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson years at Manchester United. Pereira made 75 appearances for the Red Devils but never truly convinced as one of their playmakers. After loan spells to Granada, Valencia, Lazio, and Flamengo, he left Old Trafford for good in the summer of 2022, joining the Cottagers in a £10 million deal.
The Road to Redemption: Brazil Recall and Fulham Form
And he has not looked back. Pereira’s five goals and 11 assists in the Premier League since then — for a side that was tipped to struggle — have given him the chance finally to add to his solitary Brazil cap. Pereira said: “I am very, very happy at Fulham. I feel at home in London. I am living one of the best moments in my career.”
Facing the Giants: Brazil’s Challenges Ahead
It may be a special game for Pereira, but many are tipping it to be a miserable one for Brazil. The Samba Boys are short of their star quality, save for Real Madrid trio Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, and 17-year-old Endrick and have lost their last three games. They are in a real battle to make the 2026 World Cup, with just seven points from six qualifiers so far.
Looking to the Future: Brazil vs. England Showdown
With Gareth Southgate able to call upon the likes of Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden, some regard England to be miles ahead. But Pereira said: “The last time Brazil won a tournament was fewer years ago than when England won a tournament. We could say there is a gap, but Brazil will always have big, big players.”
The Dream Continues: Pereira’s Optimism
“It is a big honor to be part of this Brazilian national team, especially in this new beginning. Hopefully, I can cement my place now and do a good job.”
Conclusion: The Journey Continues for Andreas Pereira
From humble beginnings at Manchester United to the flourishing talent at Fulham and now a second chance with the Brazilian national team, Andreas Pereira’s journey is one of resilience and determination. As he faces the daunting challenge of playing against England, he remains optimistic about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead in his career.