Christ became man for our sake by St. Athanasius of Alexandria.

“Christ, being God, became man for our sake and was born of Mary, Mother of God, to free us from the devil’s power.”

Athanasius, On Virginity 3; PG, 256; TU 29, 2,38

“It was for our sake that Christ became man, taking flesh from the Virgin Mary, Mother of God.” 

Athanasius, Against the Arians 3, 29; PG 26, 385

” When, at the end of time ordained, He was born of Mary to destroy sin (for this is why the Father decided to send His own Son, born of a woman, born under the law), then he, having taken a body, became man.” 

Athanasius, Against the Arians 3, 31; PG 26, 388-89.

Jesus Christ’s death was real. He freed us from slavery of sin. He defeated death by taking a real body.

If you are interested in more quotes on Virgin Mary, you can find them in Mary and the Fathers of the Church on Amazon in both in Kindle and paperback formats.

References:

Gambero, L., 1999. Mary and the Fathers of the Church 1st ed. Translated by Buffer, T., San Francisco: Ignatius Press. p.101-102