Anderson Explains Reasons for Leaving Manchester United

Anderson has explained his motivation for joining Fiorentina on loan for the rest of the season in an emotional message to Manchester United fans.

The Brazilian has clinched a six-month loan deal from Old Trafford after making just three starts under David Moyes.

The 25-year-old has joined with a view to making a permanent switch to Florence in the summer and has marked his departure with an impassioned tribute to United fans for their support.

"Thank you Manchester United for all you gave to me," Anderson posted on Instagram.

"It was a pleasure and a proud to be part of this tremendous club. I will never forget my great colleagues and friends, all the amazing people that work in the club and obviously the fantastic supporters, always on my side.

"Love you all and you always be in my heart. Wish you all the best because we always be together United family. Now I have to leave because I really need to play.

"Thank you Fiorentina for this opportunity and for believe in me. You won't regret because you trust me 100% and I will give you 100% of dedication, professionalism and quality. Together we will be happy."

The emotional nature of Anderson departure suggests the former FC Porto midfielder has no plan to return to the Premier League champions, having endured a torrid six and a half years at United.

Making just 90 starts for United across his spell at the club, Anderson has failed to establish himself as first choice in the midfield, with Tom Cleverley, Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini all ahead of him in the pecking order.

Moyes said on Friday: "We've not been able to get him as many games as he'd hoped, or we hoped we might get him, so we feel it's a good opportunity for him," Moyes told a news conference.

"He's going to a good club in a good league, so hopefully it gets him some benefit."