More mystery is swirling around Manchester United signing Fred's non-appearance at the World Cup.

The Brazilian suffered an injury scare on the eve of the tournament just days after sealing his £47m move to Old Trafford.

After undergoing tests on his ankle, he stayed with Brazil's squad in Russia and trained with his teammates as normal. But the midfielder didn't take to the field once and boss Tite admitted it was due to concerns over the ankle injury.

But team physio Bruno Maziotti told ESPN Brasil: "Fred recovered and improved - he was released so his athletic and clinical conditions were perfect.

“I believe that at the start of the World Cup there, in the second game against Costa Rica, and in the third game, he was in a condition of full competitiveness."

Despite not playing in the World Cup, Fred has been given another three weeks off by United.