Former Manchester United coach reveals why Amad Diallo barely played under Erik ten Hag

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Amad Diallo did not get much of a chance to shine under Erik ten Hag because Antony was considered the better option, says former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy.

While the Red Devils continue to struggle under new manager Ruben Amorim, Amad has been a standout performer in recent weeks.

His display in the Manchester derby was particularly impressive as he won the game late on for United and he has quickly become a fixture in the starting XI for Amorim.

However, that wasn’t the case under previous boss Ten Hag as the Ivorian spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Sunderland and made just three Premier League starts over the last campaign.

McCarthy, who was part of Ten Hag’s coaching staff, says competition for places in the forward line was fierce and particularly it was Antony who was ahead of Amad in the pecking order after he was signed from Ajax for an initial £82m.

‘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,’ McCarthy told the Podcast and Chill Network.

‘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.’

Amorim was quickly impressed by Amad after arriving at Old Trafford, singling him out for praise after his first game in charge, the 1-1 draw at Ipswich Town.

'I think he was very good,' Amorim said. 'Since these three days, he improved so much defensively.

'The opponent that he had all the team was the left-back, so it's like a winger that follows the left-back. It's so much easier I think, because he doesn't have to think, can I jump on the centre-back or no?

'You just follow one guy, and go forward with the same guy, it's man-to-man in that area. He was so focused on everything. I think he did a great job.'

After his derby heroics, Amorim urged caution on getting too carried away with the talented 22-year-old.

‘He can play different positions, he is very humble,” Amorim said.

‘We have to be very careful with Amad because sometimes in our club we put young players in a special place. Let’s stay calm with Amad.’