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Cristiano Ronaldo has lavished praise upon Angel Di Maria, insisting the United winger can match his remarkable impact at Old Trafford.

Di Maria has clocked up four assists and three goals in just six Premier League appearances since making a £60m summer switch from Real Madrid.

The Argentine attacker has some way to go to match the 118 goals, three Premier League titles and Champions League winners' medal Ronaldo plundered during his spell in Manchester.

But the 29-year-old, who won the Champions League alongside Di Maria at Real last season, expects his former team-mate to be a "big star" for United - just like he was.

“Angel has had an unbelievable impact on United already," he said.

“He is a fantastic player and is going to be amazing for them in the future.

“You have already seen with his attacking play and goals that he will be a big star for them.

“I have been in touch with Angel a few times since he joined United. He is my friend and we have sent text messages and spoken.

"I had six fantastic years in Manchester. It was a great moment for me and my career to be there, and I learned a lot. It is one of the biggest and best clubs in the world, and I know Angel will be a big player there too.

“I was so happy at Manchester United and so will Angel be. I am supporting him and wishing him the best.”

Ronaldo also gave his backing to under-fire Reds manager Louis van Gaal, claiming the Dutchman will turn things around if fans are patient.

"To get a good squad and a good team takes time so lets give Van Gaal the time he needs," he added.

"He is a fantastic coach and very experienced and I am certain he will make United champions again, if not this year then very spoon after that.

"Let’s see. They aren't in a good moment because they have dropped many points but they have a good coach and we need to give him time and see what happens.

"It would be amazing and good news for me if they did make the Champions League because I would love to play against them again.

"You can never write off Manchester United. It is only the beginning but it will be tough for United to win the title this year I think because they are already too many points behind Chelsea in my opinion.

"Chelsea are a little bit stronger than all the other teams this year. But of course in the Premier League over a season you never know what can happen.

"That period near Christmas is really tough and you can easily drop points because there are a lot of games in a really short space of time.

"Chelsea have made a great start and they can be champions. I hope Manchester United can come again at the top of the league.

"At the moment they are many points behind Chelsea and have had some disappointing results at the start of the season. But let's see what happens it is an exciting league and anything can happen."