Diogo Dalot has revealed he is "very proud" to be playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United this season, after growing up idolising the legendary forward.
Dalot returned to United in the summer after an impressive loan spell at Milan, where he helped the Rossoneri qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2013/14.
Since coming back to Old Trafford he has made five appearances in all competitions, faring well each time he has stepped onto the pitch.
In an interview with the club's Inside United magazine, Dalot explained that one of the main advantages of his Red Devils return has been playing with new signing Ronaldo.
"My first memory was when he was at United, that’s when I learnt all about him and really liked the way he played," he said.
"I’ve spoken many times about Cristiano – he was a big reference for me growing up and then having the opportunity to meet him in the national team, and now being his team-mate. It’s a very good achievement for me too because when you grow up you want to play with the best and, playing with the best, it’s a very proud moment in my career."
Dalot was already familiar with Ronaldo from their time together at international level and he went on to explain just how beloved he is in Portugal.
"In our country, everybody knows him, everybody follows him and he’s had a big impact," Dalot added.
"It’s another level. Something we can’t describe with words, just to enjoy while we still can and he’s still playing. And I’m very happy that he’s here now."
Dalot also confessed that he is consistently blown away by Ronaldo's professionalism, something several of his United teammates have already commented upon.
"I think it’s the way he conducts himself and prepares himself for the games," he revealed.
"It’s another level. It’s special to combine the way you saw him before and now you can see him behind the scenes as well, and combine everything. It’s amazing to have that energy and that mentality, also, in the dressing room. I think he brings everybody up and that’s so positive for us."
Source: 90min
