The former Sporting captain has explained his decision to leave for United in January.
And he has his compatriot to thank.
“That’s why it was a dream of mine to play for Manchester United and I’m very pleased to be here because it’s a childhood dream come true. I think any player who joins Manchester United wants to win everything; I want to win every competition that Manchester United compete in.
“I’m an ambitious player who wants success and I want to win every game in every competition we’re in. I didn’t speak to [Ronaldo] before coming but did after my arrival. I know some people asked Cristiano what he thought of me and what I was like as a player and a person. I know he spoke highly of me and gave me a good reference, so I sent him a message after to thank him for his kind words.
“Pressure always has to be present in our day-to-day and we have to be under pressure to improve every day. I’m a person who demands a lot from myself and always want more and to do better. That’s why, regardless of the transfer fee, I wanted to keep improving and be a better player.”