Amad is now resolved to establish himself as a consistent starter for Manchester United, even though he had to wait patiently to make his breakthrough there.
Amad in action for Manchester United (Image: Getty Images)
Amad Diallo of Manchester United has stated that he is prepared to step up and start for the Red Devils. The Ivorian winger scored a spectacular goal in United’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Newcastle at Old Trafford on Wednesday, making the most of a rare opportunity to shine.
This occurs barely two months after he scored the game-winning goal with seconds remaining to help United defeat bitter rivals Liverpool 4-3 in the FA Cup quarterfinals.
Amad had to wait for his big break at United after returning from a season-long loan at Sunderland, a Championship team.
He was sidelined by a knee injury from August to December, when he returned to the team as a substitute in a 2-1 loss to Nottingham Forest, marking his first appearance for United in more than two years.
Amad has been used as an impact substitute by United manager Erik ten Hag, despite the underwhelming performances of fellow wingers Marcus Rashford and Antony.
But the 21-year-old kept his spot for the match against the Magpies at Old Trafford after receiving a much-needed start in Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal, and he put on an incredible show, scoring and dishing out an assist.
The futures of Rashford and Antony are uncertain, but Amad, an international player from Ivory Coast, thinks he can establish himself as a regular starter for United.
In January 2021, Amad, who may have cost up to £37 million, joined United from Atalanta. “As a player, you need to be patient,” he said. “It’s not easy every time you train hard but you don’t get what you want.”
“I was training diligently every day, waiting for my opportunity, and I’m thrilled that I finally got both my chance and my score. I proceed step by step. I am aware that my lack of playing this year did not make it easy for me.
“The most important thing was to go step by step, but when you get your chance, you fight for the team and help the team.”
Both on and off the field, Amad has developed close bonds with fellow United youth players Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his football policy team as part-owners, the three players, who are between the ages of 19 and 21, could eventually form the foundation of a new United team.
And Amad acknowledged that he is excited about the opportunity to improve his skills at Old Trafford with the other rising stars. “In training we try to play together, to make that combination on the training pitch,” Amad stated.
“We try to do the same things in training as we do when we play together, like we did against Newcastle. We’re young players with a strong desire to succeed here, and I hope we can keep it up like this.”
“Kobbie’s presence on the team is crucial. He’s a talented player, and I get along well with him and Garnacho off the field as well. We enjoy playing together.
