Opinion: I Believe In Angel

Sunday's match at Leicester City may have, ultimately, been a terrible disappointment but I must admit there was a moment when I realised Angel Di Maria has the potential to become a Manchester United legend.

I found myself wanting him to get on the ball all the time, such was his ability to constantly produce magical pieces of inventive football and, of course, his goal was a thing of majestic beauty.

This was only his third appearance for the Reds, and the first one I had not witnessed in the flesh, but he is rapidly emerging as a player capable of becoming as big an idol as Cristiano Ronaldo was here. Without wishing to heap any additional pressure on the South American, it is difficult not to be enthusiastic about what he can achieve at Old Trafford.

Every player I have spoken to of late has been blown away by Di Maria's skills in training. Luke Shaw feels the midfielder is among the best five players in the world. Brazilians Rafael and Andreas Pereira may consider Argentina to be traditional rivals but the respect for their new colleague is obvious. It seems he is equally as impressive at the Aon Training Complex, away from the cameras.

What I admire most about the former Real Madrid star is his desire to make things happen. Not all of his intended passes or shots come off but he is constantly trying to make a positive impact on the game. I spoke with Sir Bobby Charlton in the summer and he commented that he likes players to not be afraid to take defenders on. Speaking generally, the legendary Knight felt sometimes today's footballers can be guilty of passing the ball conservatively to keep possession instead of thinking further forwards. This is definitely not an accusation that can be levelled at Di Maria.

Not only does he excite on the pitch but he looks just as impressive off it. I'm fortunate to be in a position where I see the United players away from the action and he is clearly a devoted family man who dotes on his baby daughter. When she was brought to meet him at an Old Trafford event this week, his face lit up and he was consumed in a way that only a fellow parent can understand.

It was as though everybody else in the crowded area instantly vanished as he playfully interacted with the toddler and carried her off to the changing room. He admits his love-heart and thumb-sucking celebrations are aimed towards little Mia and it was interesting just to watch the family together.

Everything I've seen, on and off the pitch, has only served to cement the impression that Angel is going to become a Manchester United great and enjoy immense popularity among the Reds faithful. I admit that I have been bowled over and cannot wait to see him perform again on Saturday against West Ham. Di Maria is fast becoming a real favourite and the sky is the limit for him at Old Trafford.

Credit: manutd.com