Manchester, UK – In one of the most thrilling matches of the season, Amad Diallo stole the spotlight as Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory over rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The dramatic win marked the first time United had triumphed at City’s home ground since 2021.
New head coach Ruben Amorim made headlines before the match by omitting high-profile players Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the squad. The decision drew scrutiny, especially as the game neared its conclusion with United trailing.
Amorim’s belief in his squad paid dividends, however, when substitute Amad Diallo turned the game on its head. Entering from the wing-back position, Diallo won a crucial penalty in the final minutes, which Bruno Fernandes converted to equalize. Moments later, Diallo scored the match-winning goal, capping off a memorable evening for the visitors.
Speaking after the match, Amorim highlighted the resilience and belief shown by his squad:
“We did a great job. We believed a lot. It was different to the Arsenal game, where I didn’t feel the belief. I did today,” Amorim said.
Amorim also credited former coaches Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy for their role in Diallo’s development:
“Amad is in a good moment. Erik brought him to the first team, and Ruud did a great job. Now we must not make the same mistakes we made in the past.”
While the post-match discussion celebrated United’s win, much of the focus remained on Rashford and Garnacho, who were conspicuously absent. Amorim did not elaborate on their exclusion, leaving fans and pundits speculating about potential discipline or tactical decisions.
The victory not only boosts United’s morale but also reinforces Amorim’s authority as head coach. With Amad Diallo emerging as a key player and the team displaying newfound belief, Manchester United appears poised for a resurgence.
The thrilling finish at the Etihad may well be a turning point in their campaign, with Amad Diallo’s star shining brighter than ever.
