Bernard reveals Brazil bid and slams ‘ridiculous’ Everton comparison

Bernard admits there were talks with Palmeiras before he joined Everton and has refused to rise to Athletico-PR coach Tiago Nunes’ comments about the Toffees. Everton snapped up Bernard on a free transfer in the summer of 2018 after he ran his contract down at Shakhtar Donetsk, but the player has now revealed he did have contact with Palmeiras.
He instantly caught the eye of Everton supporters for his unique brand of skill and creativity although consistency was an issue early on in his Goodison career.
But the 27-year-old does not regret his decision to move to Merseyside and his recent performances suggest he has finally settled in English football.
In an interview with ESPN Brazil, he said: “I had many conversations with Alexandre Mattos [Palmeiras sporting director]. Of course there was the interest, we talked. But I opted for Everton precisely for that. I was 25 to 26 years old. I still had some fat to burn here in Europe. I wanted to show that I’m capable, too. If I’m here, it’s no wonder.”
Bernard has scored two goals in his five starts and two substitute appearances this season, already a better goal return than he produced in 34 Premier League appearances for Marco Silva last term.
And, in the same interview, he was asked for his response to comments made by Brazilian Cup-winning Athletico Paranaense coach Tiago Nunes, who recently told ESPN Brazil’s ‘Bola da Vez’ that his side would “take a stick” to Everton if the two clubs ever met at the Baixada Arena in Curitiba. “I think this kind of question deserves no answer,” said Bernard. “It is impossible to compare one style of football with another, especially the Premier League, which is where the best teams and best players in the world are. So it’s hard to say. This comparison is ridiculous and I think he (Tiago Nunes) was very unhappy about this statement he ended up giving.”