Sport

Amad Diallo Shines in United's Europa League Victory Following Ten Hag's Sacking

2024-11-08

Author: Li

MANCHESTER, England -- Amidst the backdrop of managerial changes at Manchester United, 22-year-old winger Amad Diallo has made a powerful statement.

Having been dismissed from the first-team spotlight under former coach Erik ten Hag, Diallo returned with a vengeance in a Europa League match against PAOK FC, scoring both goals in a pivotal 2-0 victory for the Red Devils.

With Ruben Amorim set to take over as manager, Diallo could only hope his future boss was closely observing from the stands.

Recalled to the lineup by interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy, Amad not only restored his relevance but emerged as the standout player on the pitch. His first goal came from a perfectly executed back-post header early in the second half, placing United ahead in a match that had been evenly contested.

The second goal showcased his technical prowess: after dispossessing PAOK defender Baba Rahman, he crafted a curling shot from the edge of the area that sealed the victory—United's first in European competition in over a year.

As Amorim prepares for his upcoming managerial debut, he must also juggle plans for Sporting Lisbon’s match against Braga.

However, this match provides him with an early insight into a player like Amad, who demonstrated he deserves a spot on the coach’s radar.

"He is a great character,” noted van Nistelrooy, praising Amad's dedication. “He works hard, seeks out extra finishing sessions, and shows an eagerness to improve at every turn. I was very pleased for him."

United officially celebrated Amad's triumph on their social media, posting a picture of him with the phrase 'let him cook'.

Unfortunately, many fans were puzzled as to why he had previously experienced limited game time under Ten Hag, despite remarkable performances—most notably a stunning stoppage-time winner against Liverpool in last season's FA Cup.

Diallo’s sporadic presence on the team has been frustrating for fans.

Despite scoring in a rare Premier League start against Brighton, he faced inconsistent minutes, frequently relegated to a mere substitute role.

Yet, under van Nistelrooy, he made the most of his opportunity against PAOK and commanded the game with confidence.

His aggressive play showcased his determination, as he nearly won a penalty before scoring both goals that would ultimately secure the win.

While Amad's performance provides momentum, questions linger about his fit within Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system.

which tends to utilize narrow attacking positions. Established stars like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford are also contemplating their roles under the new regime in light of Amorim’s tactics.

Van Nistelrooy, who has seen success in his interim position, remains uncertain whether he will be part of the new coaching staff after his final game against Leicester.

"We'll see," he joked, noting the precarious nature of his position.

Looking ahead, Amad, van Nistelrooy, and the rest of the squad will prepare for their Europa League clash against Bodo/Glimt in three weeks.

With everyone anxious to assert their value in this new chapter for Manchester United, the upcoming match could set the tone for the future—one that many, including Diallo, are eager to embrace.

Stay tuned as this story unfolds!