Manchester United’s recent improvements have come without some of Ruben Amorim’s very best players.
The absence of Amad Diallo is a particular blow, as he had evolved into Ruben Amorim’s main man in attack for Manchester United.
Last month, it was confirmed that Amad had picked up an ankle injury for United, which could signal the end of his breakout season, which saw the 22-year-old score nine and assist seven this season.
Amad was rewarded for his form and has a contract that could see him play at the New Trafford stadium. Amorim has been outspoken about his admiration for Amad, admitting he is among the best on the team.
Since initially being ruled out, Amad could return sooner than next season, with Amorim presenting positive updates on the talented Ivorian.
Now, the verdict on Amad has emerged from inside Carrington as one unsung skill is raved about.
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Amad Diallo is one of Manchester United’s strongest players
While Amad is usually heralded for his attacking output and threat going forward, when used as a wing-back, there have been other impressive traits.
Journalist Nathan Salt has been talking to Stretford Paddock about this and possible right-sided additions for United this summer.
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In doing so, it is claimed that United want Tyler Dibling, although his asking price will prove a problem. However, with right-sided number 10s expected to arrive, Amad could find himself at right wing-back.
The journalist explained that United see Amad as one of the strongest players in the squad despite his smaller stature, standing at just 5ft 8in and being slim.
Coaches believe that Amad is deceptively strong and is excellent at holding the ball with defenders unable to get it off him.
Amad’s physicality lends itself well to the wing-back role, assuming United sign a new attacker.
Amad Diallo’s physicality is unsung quality for Manchester United
After missing out on Geovany Quneda, it was claimed that Amorim could consider using Amad at right wing-back, and dedicating funds to a new attacker instead.
It would be a smart solution as Amad is one of the best ball winners in Europe when pressing the backline and has created four goals through defensive actions.
Amad Diallo’s defensive stats Premier League 2024/25
Stat # Percentile
Tackles won % 78.8% 94th percentile
Duels won % 48.1% 72nd percentile
Interceptions 11 83rd percentile
Blocked 18 85th percentile
Recoveries 93 86th percentile
Possession won in final third 26 96th percentile
Amad suits the wing-back role perfectly, and his relentless running is also a massive plus for his adaptation to the position.
United having a right side of Amad and then a Rayan Cherki or Franco Mastantuono ahead of the Ivorian would be sensational and offer so much to Amorim’s side next season.