Fred's telling two-word reaction after 'awkward' reunion with ex-Man United boss Jose Mourinho

Fred has offered a telling reaction as he prepares for the new season at Fenerbahce under former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho.

The Brazilian joined the Turkish Super Lig team last summer after five years at Old Trafford. Fred made 35 appearances across all competitions for Fenerbahce in 2023/24, scoring three goals and providing eight assists.

But he now faces an awkward reunion with Mourinho after the Portuguese was confirmed as Fenerbahce's new manager earlier this month. The midfielder was signed by Mourinho during the summer of 2018 but made just six Premier League starts under the 61-year-old.

And now Fred has reacted on social media as he prepares for pre-season training under his former manager. "New season," he said on his Instagram stories followed by praying and hands raised emojis.

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Fred's lack of first-team minutes under Mourinho at United led to him losing his place in the Brazil national team, something he found particularly challenging. Speaking at the time, the 31-year-old said: "I've played very little at United, so it's normal for Professor Tite not to be able to evaluate me, even though I've worked hard with him before.

"Of course, I was annoyed, but I have to know how to deal with the sadness to be able to help me take a step forward. The coach has chosen not to put me in the team. That's his choice. I still do my job and I can't let it affect my mindset, I cannot let that shake me. I have to be patient. It's been a difficult start for me at United because I have not been playing so much."

Offering his own response as to why Fred was not featuring in his team, Mourinho told reporters: "Step by step. You also have other players at other clubs that needed their time and you have some of them that play even less than what Fred is playing.

"I think Fred [will play more], when the team is defensively stronger and doesn't need in midfield people that are more worried about giving some balance to the team than being involved in creation and attacking dynamics. The day we are stronger defensively, I think the horizons for Fred change completely."