Odion Ighalo will become the first Nigerian player to represent Manchester United at senior level when he makes his debut for the Reds.
There is, however, a tradition of African footballers stretching back at Old Trafford for over two decades, with six men from the continent featuring for the club since 1999.
According to information on the official website of Manchester United, the first African player, Fortune joined from Atletico Madrid in August 1999, making his Reds debut in a 5-1 win over Newcastle United later that month. Able to be deployed at full-back or in midfield, Fortune was initially used sparingly by Sir Alex Ferguson but became a valuable squad member during his seven-year spell at Old Trafford, helping the Reds to league titles in 2000, 2001 and 2003.
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