Amad Diallo Seizes Starting Role Opportunity in Manchester United’s Dominant Win Over Real Betis
Amad Diallo Shines as Manchester United Overcome Real Betis; Injury Concerns Mount
Amad Diallo Seizes Starting Role Opportunity in Manchester United’s Dominant Win Over Real Betis On Tuesday, while at UCLA, Amad Diallo expressed his desire to stay at Manchester United “all my life.” Less than a day later, at San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium, he delivered a standout performance in the first half that showcased his potential to secure a permanent spot in Erik ten Hag’s starting XI.
Diallo played a crucial role in all of United’s goals during the opening 45 minutes, either scoring once or assisting twice. This performance likely impressed Ten Hag more than the team’s second-half display, which saw them lose their shape and intent.
However, the match was marred by injury concerns. Marcus Rashford sustained what appeared to be an ankle injury and had to be substituted after 64 minutes. Antony also left the field injured, raising concerns about the fitness of United’s wingers. These injuries add to the existing list of concerns following a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal, which had already sidelined Leny Yoro for three months. The team was also missing Rasmus Hojlund due to a hamstring injury, leading to a makeshift central defense pairing of Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire.
Diallo’s influence was evident early on when he assisted Jadon Sancho, who had a goal disallowed for offside. Diallo also set up Scott McTominay, but a potential penalty was not awarded.
The game took a turn when Tom Heaton made a mistake, allowing Rodri’s shot to be saved but later picked up by Iker Losada for Betis’ opening goal. However, Diallo quickly rectified the situation by winning a penalty, which Rashford converted to equalize. Diallo’s attacking prowess continued to shine as he later assisted McTominay for a second goal and set up Casemiro for a third.
With injuries piling up, Harry Amass, hoping to fill the gap left by Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, showcased promising attacking intent. Diallo’s creativity was evident in his contributions to the goals, but the match also highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities, particularly after Ten Hag substituted Lindelof and Maguire for Jonny Evans and Will Fish, leading to some risky moments at the back.
The game ended with Rashford limping off, and a late goal by Diego Llorente brought Betis back into the match. Despite the 26,248 fans enjoying the entertainment, United’s injury woes cast a shadow over the victory.
The treatment room is filling up for Manchester United even before the new season begins, but at least Rashford was able to participate in the post-game thank-you to the fans.
