It's special - when you start playing, you are aware of names like Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie; you have seen them playing and know what great players they are. So it's fantastic to have a chance to line up with them. I'm really pleased with how that understanding has started off.

I was really close to joining Barcelona, but in the end, it wasn't to be.

There have been other players of a similar build and stature to myself - slim, if you like - who have come here and shown a physical resilience in the way that I hope to as well.

Angel Di Maria Quotes