The Weight of Expectations: Andreas Pereira Reflects on Angel Di Maria Time at Man United

Andreas Pereira suggests that Angel Di Maria struggled under the pressure of playing for Manchester United leading to his departure after just one season. Despite high expectations upon his arrival from Real Madrid in 2014, Di Maria failed to settle and left following an attempted burglary at his family home. Pereira recalls Di Maria impressive start in training and the belief among teammates that he would help United win the league.

Pereira speculates that the weight of playing for a club like United, particularly wearing the iconic No.7 shirt may have contributed to Di Maria difficulties. Di Maria made only 32 appearances for United before moving to Paris Saint-Germain, citing difficulties in adjusting to life in England and a strained relationship with then-manager Louis van Gaal as reasons for his departure.