Andreas Pereira has admitted that his departure from Fulham to Palmeiras was not a sudden decision but rather a carefully planned process that began months earlier. The Brazilian midfielder, who returned to his homeland in the summer, opened up in an interview with Globo Esporte about how his dream move only materialised because Palmeiras made an approach well before the transfer window opened.
The 29-year-old revealed that Palmeiras’ interest first surfaced in January, but Fulham resisted at the time, fearing they would be unable to secure a replacement midway through the campaign. That early contact, however, gave all parties the advance warning needed to finalise his switch in the summer window.
“I made it clear that I wanted to come,” Pereira explained. “The first time too, but I was in the middle of the season and Fulham made things a bit harder. They were afraid of not finding a replacement. When the summer window came, they were more prepared. That first approach in January was essential.”
His departure has coincided with a transitional period at Fulham, where Marco Silva is trying to balance Premier League survival with squad rebuilding. For Pereira, meanwhile, the move has offered the perfect chance to reinvigorate his career at one of Brazil’s biggest clubs. But was this a transfer Fulham could have managed differently?
How Andreas Pereira’s Fulham exit unfolded
The former [Manchester United] midfielder joined Fulham in 2022 and quickly became an important part of Silva’s system, particularly in attack. However, when Palmeiras reignited their interest in 2025, Pereira decided the timing was right.
Since arriving in São Paulo, he has wasted no time settling in. He played seven matches in under a month, scoring twice and providing an assist, instantly earning a place as a starter. Initially used as a traditional number 10, Pereira has since been deployed deeper due to injuries in Abel Ferreira’s squad — a tactical flexibility he embraces.
“When I arrived, the team was already in a great moment. It was like hopping onto a train already on the tracks.” — Andreas Pereira, via Globo Esporte
Pereira’s versatility and match sharpness — maintained by completing pre-season with Fulham before his move — ensured he required no adaptation period.
Abel Ferreira’s influence and Brazilian ambitions
One of the surprises for Pereira has been Abel Ferreira’s leadership style. While Ferreira is widely respected in South America, Pereira admitted he had not expected such a hands-on and motivating approach from the Portuguese coach.
“What makes him different from other coaches I’ve had is his day-to-day approach. He knows when to demand more, but he also keeps everyone comfortable,” Pereira said. “I was surprised by how he communicates and motivates us. To stay here for five years with so much success takes merit.”
For Pereira, returning to Brazil was also a strategic move for his international career. With the 2026 World Cup looming, he sees Palmeiras as the ideal stage to put himself back into contention for the Seleção.
“Palmeiras is the perfect showcase,” he said. “It’s a big club, always fighting for titles, and that’s where the best players are seen.”
Stats snapshot – Andreas Pereira 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Andreas Pereira |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 8 October 2025
The early numbers underline just how quickly Pereira has made an impact. Two goals and an assist in his first month signal he is already a key part of Palmeiras’ attacking play. If his form continues, he could be in line for a Brazil call-up in the next international cycle.
Analyst Verdict
According to FootballPlace analyst John William:
“Pereira’s move back to Brazil looks perfectly timed. Fulham clearly wanted to protect themselves in January, but once Palmeiras circled back in the summer, the writing was on the wall. His adaptability under Abel Ferreira has accelerated his integration, and if he sustains this form, he’ll be hard for the Brazil selectors to ignore.”
This suggests the midfielder has not only reignited his club career but potentially reopened the door to the international stage.
Key Insights
- Pereira admits his Palmeiras move was in the works since January 2025.
- Fulham blocked an earlier switch due to replacement concerns.
- The midfielder has already scored twice and provided one assist for Palmeiras.
- Abel Ferreira’s coaching style impressed Pereira immediately.
- The 29-year-old wants to use Palmeiras as a platform for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.
What’s Next for Pereira and Fulham?
For Pereira, the immediate challenge is to keep producing consistent performances in both domestic and continental competitions with Palmeiras. A strong Copa Libertadores campaign would strengthen his national team credentials further.
As for Fulham, losing Pereira was a blow, but it highlights their ongoing need to find long-term midfield solutions. With the January 2026 window approaching, Silva and the Fulham board may have to re-enter the market to replace both his creativity and experience.
👉 Should Fulham have fought harder to keep Andreas Pereira, or was Palmeiras always the right move for his career?
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