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AMAD DIALLO excelled in the Manchester derby, proving to be the pivotal player with his standout performance.
The winger continually threatened the Manchester United attack and could finally unleash the full potential of the Red Devils.
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Amad’s outstanding performances since manager Ruben Amorim assumed control could be crucial for Manchester United moving forward.
If he continues to play at the level he demonstrated against Manchester City, he could very well become one of the stars of the Premier League.
In this analysis, Dean Scoggins, our tactical expert from SunSport YouTube show Tactics Exposed, discusses how Amad can further develop and what strategies United employed to leave Pep Guardiola puzzled once again.
1. Diallo the dynamo
AMAD has displayed impressive versatility under Amorim, with roles both as a right-wing-back and a right-forward.
During the match against Manchester City, he took on an attacking role but also excelled defensively.
The forward scored the decisive goal and earned a penalty for the equalizer, showcasing his quick decision-making skills.
He was the most significant offensive threat, taking four shots, the highest for any Man United player that day.
Amad also recovered possession five times, making him the second-best in this regard among his teammates.
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The players are adapting to a new tactical system under Amorim, enabling them to retain control against Manchester City effectively.
Their ability to build from the back congested the game, creating danger behind the reigning champions.
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It was during these key moments that Amad effectively navigated the spaces at the Etihad Stadium.
2. Double teaming Haaland
THE Norwegian striker came into the derby having netted six goals against Manchester United.
However, he was barely a concern for the Red Devils, thanks to the defenders’ solid marking.
Erling Haaland was limited to only two touches in the Man United box throughout the match as the defense kept him under wraps.
The defensive line featuring Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, and Lisandro Martinez communicated effectively with one another.
Maguire primarily handled the task of marking him, but the other defenders would double up, ensuring Haaland was tightly covered.
Manchester United and Amorim deserve praise for transforming the defense into a formidable unit.
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3. Pep’s puzzles
PEP GUARDIOLA has made some unexpected choices in the past, but playing Matheus Nunes as a fullback is among the most surprising.
The former Wolves player was involved in the buildup to Manchester United’s equalizer.
He lost possession and, in his attempt to reclaim it, fouled Amad, resulting in Fernandes successfully converting the penalty.
Nunes seemed disoriented, misaligned compared to his usual position during the match.
Utilizing him in that role was a clear misstep.
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4. Rodri’s absence poses a dilemma
THE absence of Rodri has created a more significant issue for Manchester City than initially expected.
The midfielder secured the Ballon d’Or for his outstanding performances in a defensive midfield capacity.
Since his injury, his importance to the team has become painfully apparent.
Rodri serves as the glue holding the team together, and without him, Manchester City is missing key elements.
There’s a clear lack of control, the ability to disrupt opponent plays, timely fouls, and a general command of when to apply pressure.
Attempts to compensate with Josko Gvardiol moving into midfield or Jeremy Doku drifting inward to bolster physical presence have not been effective against Manchester United.
Mateo Kovacic came in and offered some degree of control, but the lack of off-the-ball control remained troubling.
The club may need to explore the transfer market in January for a suitable replacement.
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