The defender was picked for most of Cerro Porteno’s league games this year but played a very limited role in the side’s progression to August’s Copa Libertadores knockouts – an indication Manchester United are signing potential rather than a finished product.
Leon has benefited from working with Jimenez, a coach who had previously helped nurture talents such as Sergio Ramos, Jesus Navas and Jose Antonio Reyes at Sevilla.
“He was a player in development, but I saw his strength and quality, so I took the chance on him. Physically, he’s a powerhouse,” Jimenez, who now works at Apoel Nicosia in Cyprus, told Madrid newspaper Marca.
Leon has already admitted his role model for the position is former Real Madrid defender Marcelo.
“Diego has natural talent, but a long journey ahead, too. Hopefully, one day we can say he’s had a career similar to Marcelo’s – or perhaps one like [Patrice] Evra’s at United,” added Jimenez.
Leon’s progress will be watched closely both by United fans and by followers of South American football.
“His transfer is quite a unique case because usually players who leave the club are transferred to South American teams before eventually making their way to Europe,” Acuna said.
“In the past, many teams, particularly from Spain, used to sign players directly from Cerro. Nowadays, we have this situation with Leon, who is signed directly by a Premier League club, just like what happened with Gavilan.
“There’s also the case of Miguel Almiron, who first went to Argentina, then to the MLS, and from there to Newcastle. It’s been a long time since a player was signed directly from Cerro to a Premier League club.”
