It was hard to believe they wanted me - it took me a few weeks to realise it was serious' Diego Forlan on earning his big Manchester United move in 2002

"In 2001, we played at La Bombonera against Boca Juniors, Forlan tells FourFourTwo now. I didn't know it at the time, but in the stands there was a Manchester United scout along with Martin Ferguson, Sir Alex's brother. We lost 5-2, but I scored and made a good impression, from that day they followed me more closely, until my agent told me there was real interest."

"United were one of the best clubs in the world, so it was hard to believe. It took me a few weeks to realise it was serious. But it was real, and soon enough he was making his debut, in a 4-0 away win against Bolton Wanderers."

"In England, the game is played at a different speed and was even more physical. I didn't get many minutes in my first few months, but felt comfortable."

In 2002, Manchester United signed Diego Forlan, adding to their already strong striker lineup. Initially set to join Middlesbrough, Forlan was scouted during a match against Boca Juniors. His impressive performance caught the attention of United's scouts, leading to a transfer worth £6.9 million. Forlan found the transition to the Premier League challenging due to its speed and physicality, but he eventually made his debut in a 4-0 victory against Bolton Wanderers, marking the beginning of his journey at the club.

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