Midfielder Fred does not believe it is "crazy" to think that Manchester United could win the Champions League this season — but has conceded that they are not one of the favourites to win the competition.
After topping Group F with three wins from their six group matches, United face the challenge of Atletico Madrid in the last 16 over two legs, with the first-leg to come at the Wanda Metropolitano tonight (Wednesday evening).
Although United boast a richly talented squad, featuring the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho, they are not considered as one of the favourites to go deep into the competition, with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Paris-Saint Germain and reigning holders Chelsea all much more fancied.
Nevertheless, Fred — who played a key role in helping United beat Leeds 4-2 in Sunday's dramatic win — believes United cannot be ruled out from challenging for European club football's biggest prize.
A week or so ago, Luke Shaw admitted people might call him 'stupid' for saying United could win the Champions League.
And when asked if it was crazy to think that United could go all the way this season, Fred told TNT Sports : "I don't think so. I know we're not playing our best football, but we have a lot of quality names in our squad.
"I see many other teams playing far off from their best as well.
"[To win it] It wouldn't be crazy, it could happen, but we have to work our socks off because we're far away from being one of the favourites in this competition."
Facing Atletico, United will know only too well that they will be in for a stern test during their last-16 two-legged contest. The Spanish side are renowned for making life difficult for teams, regardless of whether or not they are at the very top of their game.
"Even when not playing well, they're a hard team to beat," added Fred. "Their manager is Argentinian, man, so they're warriors, defend really well, they like a bit of a fight on the pitch and play collectively as a unit.
"So it really doesn't matter if Atletico is going through a bad moment. It's a match for players that have b***s — pardon my French.
"They're the most South American team in the Champions League."
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