Leny Yoro Excited For Premier League Adventure With Manchester United

Leny Yoro is thrilled to join Manchester United, describing the Premier League as the world's biggest league. He finalised his £52 million transfer from Lille last week, signing a five-year contract with an option for an additional year. The 18-year-old became United's second summer signing after Joshua Zirkzee arrived from Bologna four days earlier.

Yoro was immediately included in Erik ten Hag's starting line-up for their 2-0 pre-season win over Rangers on Saturday. He impressed on his debut, recording the most touches (51), completed passes (44), and long passes (four) among his teammates. The French defender is eager to showcase his skills in the Premier League.

"Yeah, for me, this is the biggest championship in the world," Yoro said in his first interview with United. "For me, the Premier League, this is where football fully exists. So the fans, the level—because the level is crazy there, there is not an easy game—and, for me, the Premier League is the biggest in the world."

Yoro was initially expected to join Real Madrid after keeping 15 clean sheets in 32 league appearances last season, earning him a spot in Ligue 1's team of the year. However, a conversation with six-time Premier League winner Rio Ferdinand played a crucial role in his decision to join United.

"This is Rio Ferdinand; this is a legend at Man United, so for me this is an honour," Yoro said. "This is a big defender, a legend, so yeah, big honour for me. It was like two weeks ago. He called me, so first of all I was really impressed to speak with him and yeah, we spoke like 10 minutes about Man United, so he helped me a lot to make my choice."

Ferdinand discussed United's history and emphasised that joining such a historic club requires dedication and readiness to fight for its success.

Upcoming Matches

United fans will have another chance to see Yoro in action this Saturday when they face Arsenal in their first pre-season tour match in the United States. Ten Hag's squad will also play against Real Betis and Liverpool before focusing on their Community Shield clash with Manchester City on August 10.

The young defender looks forward to making an impact at Old Trafford and contributing to Manchester United's ambitions this season.