Now he is seeking to make a glittering impression at Old Trafford after rising literally from the streets to sign for the English giants, having in the past played for a club in a league organised for homeless people.
"To come to a team like Manchester United is a dream come true for any player," the 20-year-old told reporters.
"The Portuguese factor at Old Trafford was a motivation for me.
"You have very big names like Cristiano Ronaldo who has played here and is a very big player now. Nani and Anderson are still at the club.
"I want to become like then and I will work hard to become a top quality player."