When Diego Forlan completed his move to Manchester United in January 2002, he stepped into one of the most competitive and high-pressure dressing rooms in football.

The Red Devils’ squad at that time was filled with seasoned professionals, habitual winners, and most importantly, a manager whose authority and legacy commanded absolute respect.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s reputation was already legendary by the early 2000s, but Forlan’s initial interactions with the Scotsman offered him a glimpse of a more personal and humorous side to the Manchester United boss.

“The first time we spoke was over the phone,” Forlan shared with FourFourTwo, recalling his very first conversation with Ferguson before finalising his transfer to England.

“I had studied at a bilingual school, so even though Sir Alex had a strong accent and I was quite nervous, we managed to understand each other,” he said, describing their slightly awkward yet memorable first exchange.

Forlan had initially been expected to sign for Middlesbrough when he flew to England seeking a move away from Independiente, but Manchester United swooped in at the last moment to secure his signature, welcoming him straight off the plane.

“When I arrived in England, Sir Alex was already waiting for me at Old Trafford. He personally gave me a tour of every corner of the stadium,” Forlan recalled.

That first meeting left a lasting impression on the Uruguayan striker, who immediately recognised Ferguson’s approachable nature and exceptional man-management skills.

“From that first encounter, I realised how easy it was to talk to him,” Forlan said, before recounting another story that showed how well Ferguson knew his new player even before he had kicked a ball for the club.

“I remember during a pre-season tour in the United States, I was playing a tennis tie-break against Ruud van Nistelrooy at the hotel,” Forlan continued.

“Sir Alex knew that I had played tennis since childhood, so he decided to back me. He started joking around to distract Ruud.”

“In the end, I won the match,” he added with a smile, fondly remembering the light-hearted moment that showcased Ferguson’s playful side.