New Man Utd signing Wan-Bissaka is nicknamed ‘Spider’ for way he tackled Zaha in Crystal Palace training
AARON WAN-BISSAKA is ready to be Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s defensive superhero after completing his £50m Manchester United move.
The 21-year-old right-back — nicknamed ‘Spider’ — has signed a six-year deal with the Red Devils, raking in £20m-a-year in wages.
And after signing on the dotted line flanked by six of his relatives, Wan-Bissaka claimed it was the family-friendly atmosphere and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s rebuilding plans that convinced him to make the switch.
He said: “Ole has reassured me about his plans, what he is going to do with the team. That is something I want to be a part of.
“It was the gaffer’s decision and his plan to rebuild, and to bring the team back to where it is supposed to be. I wanted to be a part of that plan.
“Man United is a big club, a big family, a big fan base, and I think they all stick together and are so tight together.
“I have made my family proud with this decision — we stick together and we make decisions on everything. They know what is right for me.
“It’s a good moment, especially for where we have come from, you know this tough journey up until now.
“Every kid wants to play for a team like this.”
It caps an incredible rise for a player who struggled to break through at Crystal Palace in his two years as a senior pro until the start of last season.
The Croydon-born defender even begged boss Roy Hodgson to be sent out on loan 17 months ago, desperate for his chance, before sticking it out and getting his big break.
And he only realised his own potential when he came up against former United winger and old Palace team-mate Wilfried Zaha in training — earning the nickname ‘Spider’.
Wan-Bissaka explained: “That is when I realised my actual strengths, from playing against Zaha.
“It was not easy and it was always a challenge, but at the same time it helped me and made me realise what it is to play against players like him in the Premier League.
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“Now I would say my best attributes are dribbling, speed and tackling.
“‘The Spider’ is about the range and length of my legs when I’m lunging to tackle the ball. That’s where the nickname comes from.”
Wan-Bissaka has signed on for an initial five years, with the option for another season.
Boss Solskjaer said: “Aaron is one of the best upcoming defenders in the Premier League. He has the right work ethic, talent and mentality to play for Manchester United.”
