It has been over 130 days since Fernando last appeared for our Red Bulls. Our Brazilian had enjoyed a flying start to life at our club with a big impact at the start of the 2022/23 season - making us extremely eager right now for his return from a long injury break.
The 23-year-old trained with the rest of the squad during our training camp in Marbella, and Fernando is now looking forward to returning to match action. We spoke with him about how things are going and how they have been over recent months.
Fernando dos Santos Pedro interview
Hi Fernando! You injured your thigh in the warm-up at the UEFA Champions League match away to Chelsea. Can you describe what happened?
The moment I realised something wasn't right, I was very sad, of course. I was looking forward to the match so much, and no footballer would want to miss out on something like that!
I took a sudden step forward in warming up and felt a really sharp pain. I knew straight away that it was a serious injury. The resulting scan confirmed my fears, unfortunately.
There was even talk of an operation, right?
Yes, but I spoke with the doctors and my manager about that. We came to the conclusion that it wasn't needed, and that it would be better for my rehab to go without it. That's what I did, and I'm happy about it.
How would you describe the last few months? Were you just in rehabilitation or did you visit the team from time to time?
I spent a lot of time alone in recovery training, of course, but I went along to team training regularly and spoke to everyone. That was important to me, and I needed it too. I was at every match too to support the team as a fan.
There was an extremely long winter break this season. Did you spend it in Salzburg or in Brazil?
I went to Brazil over the winter break and continued my recovery there. It really helped me to be there close to my family and able to switch off from everything a bit.
Have you settled in well in Salzburg now despite everything?
Yes, I have really settled in well to the city and the surroundings, especially here at the club. I felt at home as soon as I arrived as everyone welcomed me so warmly.
How well prepared do you think the team are for the rest of the season?
It seems like the way it was in the summer. Everyone is very focused, and we are confident that we can build on our strong performances from the autumn over the rest of the season.
One last question - how fit do you feel by now? When can we look forward to seeing one of your legendary goal celebrations again?
I am close to 100 percent! I just need a little bit of playing time to get fully on it physically and fitness wise. I am very confident that I can help the team in this important stage of the season, and that we will be able to celebrate some goals together soon.
