Conor McGregor opens up on his love for Manchester United and opinions of Zlatan

Conor McGregor's passions in life may lie in UFC and becoming the world's No 1 athlete, but a childhood in Dublin equipped him with an early love of football and particularly Manchester United.

Speaking recently to FIFA, McGregor outlined his connections to football and his hopes for the Red Devils as the season reaches its climax.

'Manchester United was my team. It was only the other day I came across wearing that infamous grey United jersey, which I bought with my [First Holy] Communion money at eight years of age.

'I see my son when I look at that photo. I’d love to know where it is now. A truly ‘Notorious’ football jersey! I was attracted to the success and winning mentality of the club and people surrounded by United.'

United have made leaps and strides under the caretaker guidance of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and McGregor believes he is ready for the big role on a full-time basis.

'Ole Gunnar is a special man! I think he’s done an incredible job with United. They have to give him the job permanently.

'You can feel the pride and passion he has for the club and its history, and see the players honoured to wear the Red Devils crest under him. He’s really got the players performing.

'Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford have been particularly outstanding under him. They are young, confident and fearless athletes who believe in their abilities.'

One footballer who McGregor has become close friends with, due to their similar levels of absolute dedication and elite status within sport, is Cristiano Ronaldo.

'Cristiano is a phenomenal athlete, person, and entrepreneur. His all-around discipline, perfectionist attitude, and dedication to his craft is inspiring and has inspired so many young children to play football,' McGregor added.

'Just look what he did recently in the Champions League, at 34 years young, a hat-trick under the lights when the pressure was on for all the marbles.'

For McGregor, there is nobody in sport who will come close to himself. He does, however, feel the charismatic Zlatan Ibrahmovic does try his best to attempt to.

'I respect Zlatan and his positive-winning-mentality mindset, but let’s get this straight: there is only one Conor McGregor!

'Zlatan Ibrahimovic is trying to be the Conor McGregor of football – good luck to him.'