Ruud van Nistelrooy’s main priority since taking the Manchester United interim job was to bring the smiles back to Old Trafford, while also keeping the seat warm for the incoming Ruben Amorim.
And he has done exactly that in his penultimate match in charge, unleashing young prodigy Amad Diallo on Old Trafford, who came up with the goods in the Europa League.
The 22-year-old’s double saw United claim a 2-0 win over PAOK, their first victory in the Europa League this season at the fourth attempt to see them go 14th in the table.
Amad had largely been out of the picture under Erik ten Hag, who preferred Antony as his back-up winger option to Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford.
Ruud van Nistelrooy has left Ruben Amorim a parting gift
Reuters
It proved to be just one of the many problems that had arisen under the Dutchman’s reign, with fans desperate to see the youngster in action.
And the Ivory Coast international showed Ten Hag exactly what he was missing with his two goals, the first coming from a header despite his diminutive size.
The second was more of what Amad is all about – cutting in off the right-hand side before delivering a gorgeous shot that flew into the corner, albeit from a slight deflection.
But it was the least that the winger deserved, who later was forced off through injury in what could be a big blow to the Red Devils.
However, for the incoming Amorim, solving United’s goalscoring crisis is priority No. 1.
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Van Nistelrooy’s future at the club is in doubt despite joining in the summer with Amorim expected to bring his own staff.
But if it does turn out he will depart, the club legend has given Amorim a potential solution to United’s shyness in front of goal.
Rasmus Hojlund, meanwhile, had a tough night in front of goal yet again with the £72million price-tag still appearing to weigh heavy on the Dane’s shoulders.
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Amad Diallo was man of the match against PAOK
Reuters
Rashford also did not pack his shooting boots, though his positive runs at least got United fans out of their seats at Old Trafford.
Amorim would have watched on and will have plenty to think about when he joins next week on Monday.
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Amad Diallo raised the roof at Old Trafford
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Will he stick to his preferred three-at-the-back system? How will he prepare his midfield? What will the attacking play look like?
There is a wealth of talent at United, it will take the right coach to unlock the potential available.
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