McCarthy explains why Diallo was overlooked by Ten Hag

Yesterday at 08:00 AM

Former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has explained why Amad Diallo was overlooked by former manager Erik ten Hag.

Ivory Coast winger Diallo has emerged as one of the Red Devils' best players since Ruben Amorim succeeded Ten Hag in November, leading supporters to question why the versatile wide player did not play a more prominent role earlier.

And McCarthy, who worked under the Dutch tactician at Old Trafford from 2022 to 2024, has explained that Ten Hag often favoured his signings when selecting teams, even when such players underperformed.

Speaking on the 'Podcast and Chill Network', McCarthy was asked why Diallo had not played more, and replied: “Tactically, when we set up, the manager felt that Antony was the best, better player for the job that he wanted because he knew Antony from Ajax. He was his player, so he invested in him, and the club supported him.

“So, of course, he had to support the player that he bought, I think that’s why he persisted in playing Antony. It’s because he knew the capabilities when Antony was at his best.

“And then you had (Alejandro) Garnacho who was also playing well, scoring goals. (Marcus) Rashford, on any given day, could demolish anyone. And then you’ve got (Rasmus) Hojlund, you spend £70m on bringing him in, so he has to play.

“So someone’s gotta (miss out), and unfortunately for Amad, the manager goes with the player he thinks is probably more capable for, for those type of games tactically, defensively and attacking."

Manchester United and Diallo will hope to return to winning form in the Premier League when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers away from home on the evening of Thursday 26 December.