Manchester United prodigy Joel Pereira is currently struggling on loan in Scotland with Heart of Midlothian, but things were not always bad for the young goalkeeper. His early days with United were successful, and Pereira even had the faith of compatriot Jose Mourinho during his time in charge. Despite this, the Portuguese looks to be a flop, but must keep his spirit high in order to give his career a second chance.
What Has Happened to Manchester United Prodigy Joel Pereira?
Jose Mourinho’s Confidence
Jose Mourinho had great confidence in the youngster. In 2017, the Portuguese manager said: “We [Manchester United] have two fantastic goalkeepers, we have a third goalkeeper that I think will be the best Portuguese goalkeeper of the next generation [Joel Pereira]. We have great goalkeepers and against anyone in the world I trust [them] completely”.
He believed in Pereira so greatly, that even with his lack of experience, he would choose him against anyone, showing the incredible confidence he had in the goalkeeper.
With Mourinho’s belief a huge confidence booster, Pereira has enjoyed appearances with the U23s, EFL Cup, FA Cup, and even the Premier League. He spent last season on loan, but struggled for game-time, with just 15 appearances in 2018/19. Last summer he joined Hearts on a temporary deal, with pre-season having been a success, and ready for a season to prove that he is capable of making it in the big-time.
Poor Loan Spell
Joel Pereira has struggled tremendously since moving to Scotland. Despite the belief of one of the greatest managers of all time and a sensational pre-season campaign, Pereira has been poor for Hearts.
He has just three clean sheets in the Scottish Premiership this campaign and has shipped a whopping 37 goals during 20 appearances in the competition. On six occasions he has conceded three or more in the league, however of late, he has been dropped, and Hearts, who are battling relegation, have had a drastic increase in form.
If he keeps his confidence high, and his spirits up, he could still revive his career, with nothing to lose going out on loan next season too.
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