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Angel Di Maria has, for the first time, opened his heart on a difficult first season at Manchester United and admits: I could have done so much better.

Argentina star Di Maria was tipped to be United’s next great superstar after he signed for £59.7million from Real Madrid, wearing the No.7 shirt made famous by legends such as George Best, Bryan Robson, David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo.

But it hasn’t turned out that way.

The winger – often played out of position by manager Louis van Gaal – has struggled to make an impact. With two games to go, he has just three goals from his 26 Premier League appearances.

He has made 19 league starts, but been subbed 12 times, and there have been reports he could be sold back to Madrid this summer.

Now, Di Maria has given the frankest assessment of his ­contribution this season.

“I’m not happy with my first year in England,” he said. “I moved here from Real to win titles and this season has been very bad for me. I’m frustrated because I want to do better.

“The fans in England have not seen the real Di Maria. I know I can offer a better level. This year was not good enough.”

The 27-year-old did make an ­encouraging start, scoring all those three goals in his first five appearances, but an injury in November curtailed his ­development.

In pictures - Man United unveil record-buy Di Maria:

He has 10 Premier League assists – second only to Cesc Fabregas – and now has a steely determination to build on that.

“Adapting to English football is not easy,” Di Maria said. “People told me the first year for a foreigner here is hard. And that’s true.

“My challenge is not for one year, but to become part of the history of Manchester United.

“The stadium is unique, the fans sensational – it is a fantastic club. My only frustration is that we haven’t offered the fans our best face every week. My dream at United is still to win the Premier League and Champions League.”

Di Maria has thanked captain Wayne Rooney for helping him survive a difficult first season.

“Rooney is a leader and has spoken many times with me this season,” he said. “He has helped me so much to learn about the club. Man United is always required to fight for the Premier League – just like it is for Real Madrid or ­Barcelona in Spain.

“Next year we want to do more. I think you’ll see that we’ll be there.”