Angel Di Maria has described leaving Real Madrid to join Manchester United as growing process for his career, claiming that swapping the Santiago Bernabeu for Old Trafford has made him a better player.
Selling Di Maria was a surprise move by Real Madrid, given the Argentina international was a pivotal figure as Carlo Ancelotti’s men clinched their 10th European Cup last week, but Madrid’s loss has definitely been United’s gain, with the 26-year-old making waves in his first two months in the Premier League.
Di Maria, who netted the opener in United’s win against Everton on Sunday, said that he’s grown as a player since moving to England.
“Leaving a club like Real and coming to as big a club as Manchester United makes you grow as a player and helps you progress in your career. It was a very important moment and I’m really happy here,” Di Maria told MUTV.
“With every day that goes by, I feel much more relaxed and settled here. I’ve got a house and my family are happy.”
The Argentine has hit the ground since joining United, scoring three goals and proving to be at the centre of virtually everything United create in the final third of the pitch and the former Real Madrid man said the fans have helped him settle into a new reality.
“Since the day I arrived, people have shown real warmth towards me – at every corner kick or free-kick, or even during open play, every time I have the ball I feel they’re right behind me,” Di Maria said.
“That always makes you feel even happier. Let’s hope things go well for me so I can be here for many years to come.”
