Manchester United winger Amad Diallo has delivered an emotional and candid response to the dismissal of manager Ruben Amorim, revealing the profound personal and professional impact the Portuguese coach had on his career at Old Trafford.
A Father-Figure Lost at Old Trafford
Speaking from the Ivory Coast camp at the Africa Cup of Nations, Amad confessed the news of Amorim's sacking last week hit him hard. The 23-year-old credited Amorim as the coach who finally gave him sustained visibility and opportunities in the Manchester United first team, forging a bond that transcended the typical player-manager relationship.
"It was a tough topic," Amad admitted. "I was a bit sad, because he's the coach who gave me more visibility and more opportunities to play for Manchester United. I was very sad. I even sent him a message to thank him for everything he did for me - in my life and especially in my career."
He elaborated on their unique connection, stating, "We had a very good relationship, almost like a father-and-son relationship. He understood me, and gave me a lot of advice, and let me play freely." Despite his disappointment, Amad has wished Amorim well for the future, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of top-level football.
AFCON Focus Amidst Club Turmoil
Amad's immediate attention is firmly on international duty. He is preparing for a crucial AFCON quarter-final clash against Egypt on Saturday evening (7pm kick-off). A victory would see Ivory Coast advance to the semi-finals, extending his absence from Manchester United.
"It's very unfortunate, but that's life. You have to adapt, that's football," he said, shifting focus. "I wish him all the best in life and his next club. My focus is Ivory Coast. I have to give everything for the country. I want to finish well here and try to win this AFCON."
Manchester United's Squad Dilemma
Amad's AFCON participation has already caused him to miss United's last five Premier League fixtures. He will also be absent for this weekend's FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The timing of his return to Manchester now hinges entirely on Ivory Coast's result against Egypt. Should they win, Amad would be involved in either the final or the third-place play-off, ruling him out of the pivotal Premier League Manchester derby against Manchester City next weekend. An Ivory Coast defeat, however, would see him return in time for that high-stakes clash.
United have received mixed news regarding other AFCON absentees. Bryan Mbeumo will be available after Cameroon's elimination, but Morocco's progress to the semi-finals means defender Noussair Mazraoui will remain unavailable.
Amorim's dismissal came after a fiery post-match press conference following a 1-1 draw with Leeds United, marking a swift end to his tenure at the helm of the Red Devils.
