The Portuguese defender details his evolving role as a dressing room leader, shielding younger teammates from the intense media scrutiny while navigating the club's turbulent transition period.
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Manchester United's fullbacks were a hot talking point of the club's summer transfer window, with Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot being constant features of United's starting eleven last season.
The pair are both senior players at the club, with Shaw arriving in 2014 and Dalot in 2018. Having both seen the highs and lows of the "post-Ferguson" era, lifting the FA Cup and finishing 15th in the Premier League, they have a clear understanding of the club.
Diogo Dalot in particular has been a commendable asset, with his fitness and availability being an elite trait in his game. From once being a youngster brought in by Jose Mourinho, the Portugal international has become the starting right back and a clear senior figure in the dressing room.
With a turbulent start to the 2026/27 Premier League season in motion, Dalot has spoke out about how he as a senior player has a responsibility with the younger players to keep heads level.
Dalot's Unwritten Rule As A Senior Player
Speaking to ESPN, Dalot revealed the pressures and roles of his as a more experienced player at Old Trafford.
He stated: "I think being here for so long, I feel that it's my responsibility to sometimes try to help players to understand that sometimes it's not as bad as they think and sometimes it's not as good as they think.
"I feel that now it has to be one of my roles for sure."
With the media around Manchester United being so reactive, it could be easy for players to be overwhelmed by the largely positive or negative reception around the club.
Dalot has been an example of maturity within the squad, taking the role of deputy captain on multiple occasions and showing an elite mentality since he established himself as starting right back in 2022.
Leny Yoro impressed at centre-back in the 4-0 win against Sabah FK in the Champions League.roundtable.ioLeny Yoro impressed at centre-back in the 4-0 win against Sabah FK in the Champions League.
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The Pressure Of The Badge
After receiving praise from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo for his level of professionalism and strong mentality, Dalot has taken that responsibility in his stride and grown to be a leader in the squad as new players arrive.
Michael Carrick's side needs players like this to be a clear example for younger players coming up the ranks, with a huge responsibility suddenly being put on their shoulders.
Players like Bruno Fernandes, Lisandro Martinez, and Harry Maguire all have this role in the squad and with the likes of Shea Lacey and Harry Amass merging into first-team minutes, their advice will be crucial in their development.
Now United look towards Manchester City in Carrick's toughest test so far this season, with a fresh-faced Enzo Maresca side looking to reverse the damage of Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu last season.