Louis van Gaal: ‘Team player’ Angel Di Maria is fantastic Man United addition

While there is no doubt Angel di Maria is a “world-class midfielder”, Louis van Gaal was quick to highlight the Argentine’s work ethic after the winger sealed a British record move to Manchester United.

The 26-year-old forward completed his £59.7m switch to the Red Devils on Tuesday evening, penning a five-year deal with the 20-time English champions after passing his medical at Carrington.

His dribbling skills and his ability to take on and beat opponents are a joy to watch. He is an excellent addition to the team

Louis van Gaal

Di Maria’s big-money move hands Van Gaal and United a timely boost after the 13-time Premier League champions continued their winless start to the season with a 1-1 draw at Sunderland on Sunday.

And Van Gaal, who has signed a three-year deal with United, hailed Di Maria as an “excellent addition” after snapping up his fourth summer signing, taking United’s spending to over £130m in the transfer window.

“Angel is a world-class midfielder but most importantly he is a team player. There is no doubting his immense natural talent,” Van Gaal told United’s website.

“He is a tremendously fast and incisive left-footed player who puts fear into the most accomplished defence. His dribbling skills and his ability to take on and beat opponents are a joy to watch. He is an excellent addition to the team.”