More exciting than Mainoo and Garnacho, Man Utd’s dazzling wonderkid nearing first season appearance
There is very good news for Manchester United with a rare positive injury update, one we have been waiting for.
Manchester United’s club website has confirmed Amad Diallo has returned to full training.
“Amad has returned to full training with the first-team squad,” the update says.
The forward was pictured in light training in late October, with Manchester United treating his recovery cautiously.
Amad has been out of action since suffering a knee injury in pre-season in the win over Arsenal.
Amad’s story so far
There have been high hopes for Amad ever since the deal to sign him from Atalanta was struck in late 2020, although he did not arrive until 2021.
He made an early impact, dazzling in under-21 games, and then stepping up to score in a Europa League tie at Old Trafford against AC Milan.
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He later provided his first Premier League assist in a match with Leicester City, setting up a goal for Mason Greenwood.
Since then, it’s been a little stop-start. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer did not involve him in late 2021, before Ralf Rangnick sent him out on loan at Rangers.
That was a mixed loan spell, where Amad showed flashes, but did not hold down a starting spot.
Last season at Sunderland was seen as a pivotal loan for him, and he passed with flying colours, almost leading them to promotion.
Amad scored 16 goals in all competitions, thriving in attacking roles in the centre and on the wing, verstality which could be useful for Manchester United.
Pre-season was shaping up as a chance for Amad to show what he can do, and he was making a steady start, before the untimely injury struck.
Amad is Manchester United’s wildcard
Erik ten Hag has proven he is a manager who will give opportunities to young players. It’s up to Amad to show he deserves it.
Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo have demonstrated their ability to the manager. Amad could be more exciting than the pair of them.
He is capable of providing an answer to the problematic right wing position, as well as filling in for Bruno Fernandes in attacking midfield – while he has also shown he can lead the line up front.
His loans have been really interesting, getting experience in the Championship was a key test, with some concerned whether he could hack the physicality of English football. He proved a real point with his performances.
Now Manchester United can benefit in the second half of the season, if he is kept around and not sent out on loan. A potential call-up to the African Cup of Nations could further complicate matters.
With Erik ten Hag quoted this week to United We Stand (via Athletic) that January signings are uncertain, getting Amad added to the squad could be a vital boost.
It is great news to see him back in full training, moving closer to a first appearance of the season. It is a boost for the manager to have him back in the first team squad.