Manchester United are showing signs of a revival under new manager Ruben Amorim, with Amad Diallo being one of the bright spots. Amorim has temporarily got the Red Devils back on track following Erik ten Hag’s sacking in October, but it’s Amad’s role transition that has really made an impression.
Amad Diallo was underrated under Ten Hag, making only a handful of appearances and failing to establish himself. But since Ruben Amorim took charge, the Ivorian has become a key part of the squad. He started both Premier League games and played the final 30 minutes of the Europa League win, suggesting he will be an integral part of the Portuguese tactician's plans to build a new squad at Old Trafford.
Famous for his three-at-the-back system during his time at Sporting Lisbon, Amorim has continued this style of play at United. He has deployed two attacking full-backs high up the pitch and surprisingly, Amad has been tested at right-back rather than his traditional attacking role. The 22-year-old has not only adapted quickly but has also shone.
This change has given Amad Diallo space to exploit, allowing him to regularly make dangerous runs and passes. In the first 3 matches under Amorim, the 2002-born star has assisted 3/5 goals for The Red Devils. This number has helped him top the list of assists in the Premier League since the beginning of November, surpassing many top stars such as James Maddison or Bernardo Silva.
The 4-0 win over Everton was a testament to Amad Diallo’s effectiveness. Although 44% of United’s attacks came down the left flank, the Ivorian striker was often found higher up the pitch than Diogo Dalot on the opposite flank.
He made several key passes (3 times) and was successful in 4 dribbles, becoming a constant threat to Everton's defense. At the same time, the former Atalanta player also showed his defensive ability with 4 tackles (highest in the match).
“Amad is excellent both in attack and defense. He needs to continue to maintain this form,” Ruben Amorim praised his student.
The real test for Amad Diallo and Amorim’s new system will come when they travel to Arsenal. Mikel Arteta’s side are in fine form, scoring 13 goals in their last three games. However, the Gunners have also shown weakness on the left flank, with just 32% of their attacks coming down that flank, the lowest rate in the Premier League.
Riccardo Calafiori’s injury has forced Oleksandr Zinchenko into the left-back role, but the Ukrainian is not a strong defender. This could open up space for Amad Diallo to exploit, especially if he continues to play at his current level.
In a short time, Amad has transformed himself from a forgotten player to one of the most important factors under Amorim's reign. If Man United continue to develop their playing style with a 3-center-back formation, the young Ivorian star will probably still be the top priority for the right wing-back position of the "Red Devils".
