Despite his impressive substitute appearances, Amad Diallo is yet to earn a starting role for Manchester United this season. With Marcus Rashford facing a fitness concern, the Ivorian is now vying with Antony for a spot in the attack alongside Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho. Amad’s energetic and skillful performance against Coventry City, coupled with Antony’s underwhelming display at Wembley, has sparked calls for Erik ten Hag to hand him his first start since December 2021.
Manchester United face Sheffield United at Old Trafford on Wednesday night, with Erik ten Hag’s side under pressure to deliver an improved performance following their shaky display in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City. Here are five key points to watch out for in the Premier League encounter:
Erik ten Hag believes that Amad Diallo deserves more playing time at Manchester United, but he highlights the fierce competition for places in the club’s attacking midfield. Despite recovering from a knee injury in December, the Ivory Coast international has only made two Premier League starts this season, coming off the bench to score the winner against Liverpool in the FA Cup. Ten Hag acknowledges that Diallo has performed well in limited opportunities and praises his qualities, but he has had to prioritize other players like Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, and Omari Forson.
