A shadow fell over one Manchester United player with the news of Ruben Amorim’s departure, a dismissal that statistically marked him as the least successful Premier League manager in the club’s history. While reactions within the squad were mixed, for Amad Diallo, the news struck a deeply personal chord.
Diallo, who arrived at United in 2021 but struggled for consistent playing time, found a lifeline under Amorim’s leadership. Repurposed from an attacking midfielder to a dynamic right-wingback, he flourished, making 43 appearances and contributing an impressive 10 goals and 11 assists.
The timing of Amorim’s sacking was particularly difficult for Diallo, who was representing the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations. He openly shared his sadness, revealing a bond with the coach that extended far beyond the training ground.
“It was a tough topic,” Diallo confessed. “I was a bit sad because he’s the coach who gave me more visibility and more opportunities to play for Manchester United.” He didn’t hesitate to reach out, sending a message of gratitude for Amorim’s impact on both his career and his life.
Their connection, Diallo explained, was profound. “We had a very good relationship, almost like a father-and-son relationship. He understood me, gave me a lot of advice, and let me play freely.” It was a freedom that unlocked his potential, transforming him into a key player.
Despite the personal blow, Diallo remains focused on his international duties, currently shining at AFCON 2025 with three goals and an assist in just four games. He’s a leading contender for the tournament’s Golden Boot, a testament to the confidence Amorim instilled in him.
While the future remains uncertain at Old Trafford, Diallo anticipates continuing to contribute significantly upon his return, regardless of who takes the helm. He carries with him the lessons and encouragement of a coach who believed in him, a relationship that transcended the game itself.
For Diallo, Amorim’s departure is a reminder of football’s unpredictable nature. “It’s very unfortunate, but that’s life. You have to adapt, that’s football,” he acknowledged, wishing his former coach well and turning his attention back to the pursuit of glory with the Ivory Coast.
