I was playing tennis with Ruud van Nistelrooy Alex Ferguson started joking to distract him and I ended up winning' Diego Forlan recalls his first conversation with the legendary Manchester United boss

"The first time we spoke was on the phone, Forlan tells FourFourTwo as he recalls his introduction to Ferguson before he made the move to England. I'd studied at a bilingual school, so despite Sir Alex's strong accent and my nerves, we managed to understand each other."

"When I landed in England, he was waiting for me at Old Trafford and showed me around every corner of the stadium, Forlan continues. Ferguson quickly made an impression on the Uruguayan, who was clearly impressed with the Scot's man management."

"I can remember during a pre-season in the US, I was playing a tennis tie-break against Ruud van Nistelrooy at the hotel. Sir Alex knew I'd played tennis since I was a kid, so he backed me and started joking to distract Ruud. I ended up winning."

Diego Forlan signed with Manchester United in January 2002, joining a team known for its demanding environment. His first interaction with Sir Alex Ferguson was over the phone, where they managed to communicate despite language barriers. Upon arriving in England, Ferguson personally welcomed Forlan at Old Trafford, showcasing the stadium. Forlan appreciated Ferguson's approachable demeanor and effective man management, recalling a pre-season tennis match where Ferguson supported him against Ruud van Nistelrooy, demonstrating his knowledge of Forlan's background.

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