Why is Fred not preferred nowadays?
The stats tell the story. The Brazilian ranks second-highest in possession loss in the Man United squad. Though his recovery rate is high, the former Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder has lost possessions 14.5 times per 90 minutes.
Solskjaer likes to dictate the games against lower-ranked opposition. Manchester United sat deep and counter-attack against Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool, and the other bigger teams. Against other smaller teams, they dominated the possession. This is where Pogba and Matic have proved instrumental.
Now we have to ask why the Brazilian played so well with Scott McTominay?
The answer is McTominay lacks the defensive discipline and calmness that Nemanja Matic brings to the line-up. During those times, Fred covered for Scott McTominay in critical situations.
When he is paired alongside Paul Pogba, the opposition plays smart by sitting deep. This makes Fred struggle and uncomfortable.