The Brazilian midfielder was the only marquee signing that the Red side of Manchester were able to bring in over the summer, but things could have been very different for him.
Ahead of a crucial Manchester derby on Sunday, Fred revealed that he received an offer from United's rivals City over the summer, however he decided to join the Old Trafford club to play under Jose Mourinho.
"That's true, I received an offer from them [Manchester City] and even talked to my Brazilian team-mates who play for our neighbours," the former Shakthar Donetsk player told 'FourFourTwo'.
"Mourinho is a top, top professional and every player likes to work with such a winner. I'm learning things from him, that's for sure. He can be quite strict, but that's part of his job.
"He's also friendly and funny off the pitch, and jokes with us in the dressing room. Jose was crucial in my decision to join Manchester United and I'm grateful for his interest in my football."