Manchester Evening News

Dalot: I want to pay Jose back

- By CHARLOTTE DUNCKER

DIOGO DALOT says he wants to repay Jose Mourinho for bringing him to United.

The 19-year-old says he is finally ready to begin his Old Trafford career after a knee injury has kept him on the sidelines since his summer move from Porto.

And defender Dalot has revealed that once he knew United – and Mourinho – wanted to sign him, he had no hesitation.

“I heard at the end of the season I might have the opportunit­y to come here and it was a dream come true,” he told ESPN FC.

“The choice was obvious. This is one of the greatest clubs ever.

“His (Mourinho’s) history talks for itself. He’s a great manager, one of the greatest managers ever.

“He believes in me, that’s the most important thing. I’m hoping to repay that and give him what he wants from me.”

And Dalot says he has been able to stay positive throughout his battle back to full fitness.

“It has not been frustratin­g because you have to be prepared for these things in football,” he said. “I kept my mind always thinking I’m one more step closer to where I want to be.

“The team have helped me a lot during this recovery time.

“We are together, we are strong. I was looking forward to playing in this amazing stadium and I’m looking forward to playing here again. For sure, I’m going to become a better player here,” he added.

“I’ve learned a lot in a short space of time from Antonio, Matteo, Ashley and Luke. I’m looking forward to learning more.”

 ??  ?? Diogo Dalot in action for United Under-23s in Premier League 2
Diogo Dalot in action for United Under-23s in Premier League 2

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