New Manchester United star Angel di Maria: 'I didn't want to leave Real Madrid'

Angel di Maria has revealed that he was forced out of Real Madrid, which resulted in his big-money move to Manchester United.

The Argentina international sealed a British record £59.7m switch to Old Trafford yesterday.

However, the 26-year-old has admitted in an open letter to Madrid fans that he didn't want to leave the Bernabeu this summer, but "lies" that were told forced him to seek pastures new.

He wrote: "Unfortunately, I have to go but I want to make clear that this was never my desire. Like anyone who works, I've always wanted to progress.

"After winning La Decima (10th Champions League) I went to the World Cup with the hope of receiving a gesture from the board, which never arrived. Many things and many lies were told. Someone may not like me. The only thing I asked for was something fair.

"There are many things that I value and many of them have nothing to do with my salary. I hope to find them at Manchester United - one of the biggest clubs in the world."

Di Maria, who has signed a five-year contract, could make his debut for United, who were knocked out of the Capital One Cup by MK Dons last night, against Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday.