ISTANBUL, TURKEY — Former Manchester United midfielder Fred is set to return to his Brazilian roots after agreeing a permanent move to boyhood club Atletico Mineiro from Turkish side Fenerbahce, bringing an end to his 13-year European odyssey.
The 33-year-old Brazil international has reached a full agreement with the Belo Horizonte club, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming that Atletico Mineiro will pay €2 million upfront, with an additional €500,000 available in potential performance-related bonuses.
The move represents an emotional homecoming for Fred, who spent part of his youth career at Atletico Mineiro before departing in 2010 without making a senior appearance. He subsequently joined Internacional, where he established himself in senior football and attracted interest from European suitors.
Fred’s European journey began in 2013 when he joined Shakhtar Donetsk, enjoying a highly successful spell in Ukraine that yielded three Ukrainian Premier League titles and a Ukrainian Cup triumph. His commanding performances in midfield caught the attention of Manchester United, who paid approximately £47 million to secure his signature in 2018.
At Old Trafford, Fred made more than 200 appearances across five seasons, remaining an important squad member under several managers. His most significant achievement came during the 2022-23 campaign when United lifted the League Cup under Erik ten Hag, with Fred featuring in the final as the Red Devils defeated Newcastle United at Wembley to claim their first major trophy in six years.
Following his departure from Manchester United, Fred joined Fenerbahce and continued to play a pivotal role in midfield. He helped the Turkish giants win the Super Cup in 2025 and enjoyed a productive final full season in Istanbul, making 45 appearances across all competitions and contributing four goals and five assists. Overall, Fred leaves Fenerbahce after 129 appearances, with 12 goals and 21 assists to his name.
The midfielder also enjoyed a lengthy international career with Brazil, representing the Selecao at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, adding major international experience to an already impressive club résumé.
His return to Atletico Mineiro now offers the veteran midfielder an opportunity to continue his career in his homeland, closing the circle on a journey that began in the club’s youth academy over two decades ago. For Fred, the move is a chance to finish his playing days where it all started, bringing a decorated European career full circle.
