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The midfielder is trying to learn the language but admits attempting to interpret his manager’s thick Scottish accent might take him longer as he adjusts to life in England
Manchester United’s new midfielder Shinji Kagawa has stated that he does not understand a word Sir Alex Ferguson says as he is attempting to learn English.
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The Japan international joined the club this summer, and is adjusting to life in the Premier League, but accepts that the language barrier between he and his coach will take a little longer to break down.
“I can’t tell a word he says! I am trying to learn English, but understanding the manager might take a little longer,” Kagawa told the Daily Mail.
The 23-year-old marked his home debut against Fulham with his first goal for the club after converting from close range in their 3-2 win, and though he says it does not quite compare with Robin van Persie’s strike, it is not his normal type of goal.
He added: “Mine wasn’t exactly in the same bracket as [Van Persie’s], but it felt great. [I couldn’t really miss] from two yards out! That wasn’t the sort of goal I usually score so I hope next time I will show the United fans what I can do from longer range.
“My game is not just about scoring, though. I like to create openings. I was really disappointed to see the flag go up after I was involved in the move that led to Rafael’s offside ‘goal’.”
Kagawa has also stated that the phyiscality of the Premier League is the first thing he noticed after joining United, and accepts that he will need to adjust to it, but feels he can get his side playing more attacking football if they trust him.
“The physical side of it is the first thing,” he continued. “I need to adapt to that. The other thing is the quality through the division. In Germany, the top few teams were so much better than the rest, but here, every opponent is difficult.
“We seem to play the ball sideways a lot, but I want team-mates to start giving me the ball from all areas and angles.
“I need to speak to them about this, because I want them to have the trust in me to play the ball forward.”
