La Liga best in the world —Man U’s Eric Bailly

Manchester United defender Eric Bailly, has hailed Spain as ‘a great league’ — but admits there are major differences with the Premier League.

The 22-year-old made the move to the Premier League giants in the summer, signing from Spanish club Villarreal in a £30million deal.

He has hit the ground running in Manchester, helping his side to three clean sheets in 11 appearances; though his recent progression has been hindered by injury.

He added: ‘From what I see, football in Spain, they also have a great league.

‘La Liga is the best in the world, but here it is different, very direct, there is more contact and more strength.”

‘And like I said, little by little, and with more training, I hope to improve. Manchester is a nice place, I’m happy here.’

He also hailed boss Jose Mourinho as the best in the world.The centre back, who has been included in Ivory Coast’s provisional squad for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations, has heaped praised on his United manager.

Bailly said: ‘He’s a great manager, the best in the world, it is a pleasure to work and learn with him.

‘I hope it continues like this and that I stay at United for a long time. I’m truly happy, with my team and my team-mates. Bit by bit, I’m getting to know more.’

Bailly’s move to Manchester came as a surprise, having only plied his trade in Spain’s top-tier league, La Liga, for two seasons.