Summer 2007:
United Assistant Manager Carlos Queiroz brings Angolan striker Mateus Alberto Contreiras Gonçalves, better known as Manucho, to the attention of Sir Alex Ferguson. Ferguson responds suspiciously, "Seriously, Carlos? Another Portuguese speaker?"
December 2007:
After impressing during a three-week trial at Carrington, United sign Manucho to a three-year contract.
January 2008:
Manucho is named in the Angolan side for the African Cup of Nations in Ghana, providing a world stage on which he can prove that he is United quality.
January 23, 2008:
In the opening match of the group stage against South Africa, Manucho scores on an acrobatic header; United supporters immediately begin dreaming about what an aerial menace could achieve at the head of United's already potent attack.
January 27, 2008:
The man scores two more goals, including another powerful header in 3-1 win over Senegal.
February 1, 2008:
Ferguson confirms that Manucho will be loaned out to Greek club Panathinaikos until the end of the season to gain first team experience under the watchful eye of Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro.
February 4. 2008:
In the quarterfinal against Egypt, Manucho unleashes an absolute screamer from outside the box to score what is easily the goal of the tournament so far. Egypt go on to win the match and Manucho plans to head home to Angola before reporting for duty in Athens.
February 5, 2008:
In a flash of smoke, Jose Mourinho arrives on the scene to give his "special" opinion on Manucho and African players in general, expressing doubt over whether Manucho will ever play for United.
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Thanks for that. Manucho is a name that was working it's way into my consciousness. I'm guessing that Sir Alex was willing to loan him out, in part, because Louis Saha is going to be available; is that right? Otherwise, it seems like United would want to keep a guy around who's good in the air and could come on late in games when a goal is needed.
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