From Debut to Glory: The Early Manchester United Journey
He made a high-profile move to Manchester United for an initial fee of £22.5 million, a clear signal of the club’s belief in his immense potential. The deal also included a conditional £1.5 million add-on, set to be triggered if United managed to secure either the Premier League or Champions League within the next four years. This structure emphasized both the club’s ambition and their confidence in his ability to contribute to historic successes.
Upon signing, he committed to a four-year contract that would keep him at Old Trafford until June 2016. This long-term agreement reflected mutual trust: the club saw him as a cornerstone of their future plans, while he embraced the opportunity to develop and shine at one of football’s most iconic institutions. It was a relationship built on promise, potential, and the shared pursuit of silverware.
One of his first decisions at the club was to adopt the number 20 shirt, following advice from assistant coach René Meulensteen. The reasoning behind this choice was symbolic, tied to Manchester United’s aim to win their 20th league title. By choosing this number, he demonstrated a desire to intertwine his personal journey with the club’s history, showcasing his commitment to contributing meaningfully to the team’s legacy.
His competitive debut came on August 20, when he entered as a 68th-minute substitute for Danny Welbeck during a narrow 1–0 defeat to Everton. Though the match ended in disappointment, the appearance marked the beginning of his adaptation to the pace and intensity of the Premier League. It was a first glimpse of a player who would gradually make himself indispensable in attacking roles.
Merely five days later, he scored his first goal for the club in a thrilling 3–2 home victory over Fulham. This early strike not only lifted spirits but also signaled his ability to make an immediate impact. Over the following weeks, he continued to shine, delivering critical goals such as a memorable hat-trick against Southampton and a dramatic late penalty against Liverpool, underlining his growing reputation as a clutch performer in high-pressure moments.
His influence wasn’t limited to domestic competitions. On the European stage, he scored a decisive brace in a 2–1 away victory over CFR Cluj, proving he could perform at the highest levels internationally. These performances strengthened his profile as a versatile and reliable attacking presence, one capable of turning games around for Manchester United.
