Manchester United’s Carrington Academy has long been known to produce the best young talent. But not only that, they also identify smart acquisitions for bright young stars, and nurture them to thrive.
One of the shining young shoots right now is Amad Diallo. The player arrived at Old Trafford from Atalanta in a deal worth up to £37m last summer, aged just 17. Diallo is currently on loan at Sunderland in the Championship.
Diallo should have a chance.
Earlier, Anthony Elanga brought promising sparks during the first phase of his career at Man United, notably the equalizer against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 match in the 2021/22 season.
However, with the strides being made, Diallo promises to be able to return to occupy a place in the Red Devils squad. Even, Diallo can push Elanga to the bench because this player is in decline, almost forgotten at Old Trafford.
In a Sunderland shirt this season, the 20-year-old – who was once called “a special talent” by Owen Hargreaves – scored six goals and provided one assist in 18 Championship appearances. The seven contributions to this direct goal have come in the last 10 outings.
Diallo emerged as an effective offensive weapon of the “Black Cat”, an important link in the ambitious squad. They aim to get promoted to the Premier League, after taking up the Championship from League One last season.
According to Sofascore, Diallo was scored with an average score from the start of the tournament of 6.95. He started 11 times and impressed with 7 direct imprints, averaging 1.6 shots per game and 2 great chances created.
Diallo’s passing accuracy is 86%. This shows that Diallo has a playing mindset and the ability to connect with teammates. Coach Erik ten Hag certainly likes this quality.
Elanga is in decline.
Diallo proved his talent when he got his name on the electronic board in Sunderland’s overwhelming 4-1 win over Wigan Athletic this week.
Watching Diallo’s performance, journalist Josh Bunting asserted: “The way Diallo dribbles and dribbles from midfield is amazing. Sunderland have a really confident player at the moment. Distinctive class for the Championship, excellent at backing up the defense and starting the counter-attack.”
Notably, Everton are interested in Elanga of the Red Devils. A change could be the right move. Elanga then has the opportunity to fight for a regular place in the starting lineup at Goodison Park, and at the same time Diallo can nurture his skill set back at Old Trafford.
Having made nine appearances for Man United, scoring one goal and assisting one, Diallo is certainly ready to show himself in the Red Devils squad next time around.
Minh Tuan | 17:18 December 31, 2022
