- Amad Diallo has struggled for Manchester United this season
- Damning statistic reflects poor form
- Speculation around future laughed off, but for how long?
In the darkness of the last two seasons, Amad Diallo has been a spark of creativity in a Manchester United side that was severely underpowered.
A degree of credit must be given to former head coach Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese utilised the Ivorian’s qualities on the right flank when Erik ten Hag failed to recognise them. Despite the Reds reinforcing their attack last summer with Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbuemo, hopes were still high for Amad to keep his place.
However, a poor season begs the question. Should the winger still be at Old Trafford next season?
Shocking Statistic Reflects Amad’s Poor Form
A shocking statistic via StatMuse tells the story in just a few words.
Amad has failed to register a goal or an assist in his last fifteen Premier League matches. Since returning from AFCON, the 23-year-old’s form has dramatically dropped. The last time he scored was in the 4-4 draw against AFC Bournemouth under Amorim.
Despite this, Michael Carrick has shown him faith, starting him in eleven of his fifteen games in charge. Unfortunately, the winger has not repaid that faith. He has failed to look like the player he has been in the last two seasons.
The last game came against his former club, Sunderland, where he wowed Black Cats fans in his loan spell there a few seasons ago in the Championship. The Ivorian was replaced after 75 minutes to an ovation at the Stadium of Light. Yet, it would have been more impactful from a United perspective if he wasn’t.
There have been talks that his form could threaten his future at Old Trafford. However, the latest reports from Graeme Bailey suggest that club insiders have dismissed speculations that Diallo will be allowed to leave in the summer.
Future Secure… For Now
For now, Amad ’s future at Manchester United appears secure. However, if the club want to appear ruthless under INEOS in their pursuit for greatness, he can’t be allowed to feel too secure.
The upcoming campaign offers a massive opportunity for redemption, as United returns to the UEFA Champions League. A busier schedule means an increase in opportunities to rotate into the starting eleven, even if he has lost his place in the starting eleven.
However, the margin for error is sensitive. If his goal and assist drought continues into next season, his presence could become a liability for the right flank. It will inevitably fuel speculation regarding his long-term future at Old Trafford.
Amad has the comfort and backing for now. One way of reducing that pressure is ending his drought before the end of this season. If it is carried over, the summer is long enough to draw speculation about his future in a World Cup year.
