Manchester United Promotes Academy Star to First Team as Amad Diallo’s Replacement
Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has called up a highly-rated academy talent to the first team, believing he is the ideal replacement for Amad Diallo.
The young prospect, often compared to Lionel Messi, has been promoted due to a lack of quality depth in Amad’s position.
United’s Struggles Without Amad
With Amad Diallo sidelined for the remainder of the season, Manchester United faces an even greater challenge in attack.
The 22-year-old has been a standout performer, scoring nine goals across all competitions—matching Bruno Fernandes’ tally. His absence leaves a significant gap in United’s frontline, requiring others to step up.
As United prepares for a crucial fixture against Everton at Goodison Park, Amorim must find a suitable solution to replace Amad’s dynamic playing style. Two players have emerged as potential alternatives.
Possible Replacements: Zirkzee and Dorgu
In last weekend’s loss to Tottenham Hotspur, Amorim made tactical adjustments, deploying Joshua Zirkzee in an attacking midfield role alongside Alejandro Garnacho.
While United struggled to create chances, Zirkzee showed promise. Amorim praised his physicality and adaptability, stating:
> “Josh isn’t a traditional number nine; he’s more comfortable as a 10. He’s working hard, improving his speed, and winning more duels. That influenced our decision.”
Zirkzee’s ability to hold up play and drop deeper could help create space for Rasmus Højlund in attack.
Another option is Patrick Dorgu, who, despite being signed as a left wing-back, has experience playing as a right winger for Lecce. All three of his league goals this season came from that position.
Amorim values having a left-footed winger on the right side to create different passing angles and attacking variations.
> “Dorgu has played on the right before, and we need wingers who can switch sides,” Amorim explained. “A left-footer cutting inside can combine differently, while a right-footed player offers more crossing opportunities.”
Tactical Dilemmas
Deploying Dorgu in attack, however, could create defensive challenges. United has long sought a specialist left wing-back, and shifting Dorgu forward might leave them short in defense, potentially forcing Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui into unfamiliar roles.
As the season nears its conclusion, Amorim must carefully manage his squad to maintain an attacking edge. Whether Zirkzee or Dorgu takes on the role, United will need a solution to compensate for Amad’s absence and stay competitive.
