“We needed a left-footer in that role” - Ruben Amorim says Manchester United star will improve after trying new role for first time vs Plzen

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim hailed Amad Diallo following his side's 2-1 win against Viktoria Plzen on Thursday, December 12. The Red Devils went down to a Matej Vydra strike (48') but Rasmus Hojlund came off the bench to score a brace (62' & 88') and secure their first away win in Europe since 2023.

In his post-match press conference, Amorim praised Hojlund but also waxed lyrical about Diallo. The 22-year-old played as a No. 10 and caught the eye.

Amorim claimed that Diallo could become better in the No. 10 position as he becomes more experienced. He insisted that the Ivory Coast international came too deep for the ball and should have played much higher up the pitch.

Amorim was quoted as saying by Eurosport:

"I think he can be a very good player in that position. He has a left foot, we needed a left-footer in that role."

"I think in the first half he was coming for the ball too much. He needs to play near the goal, near the back line. It’s the first time he will improve in the future," he added.

Expectations were massive from Diallo when Manchester United reportedly splashed £37.2 million for his services in 2021. However, the youngster didn't receive too many chances to impress under Erik ten Hag.

However, the Ivorian has become a key player under Amorim since the Portuguese took charge last month. He has featured six times across competitions under the new manager and has contributed with four assists.

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Wes Brown hails Manchester United star following victory against Plzen

Wes Brown lauded Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui for his solid display in the Red Devils' 2-1 win against FC Viktoria Plzen. The Morocco international has been the epitome of versatility following his reported £12.8 million move from Bayern Munich last summer.

Since he arrived at Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim has used Mazraoui as the right-sided centre-back in a back three. Brown, who made 362 appearances across competitions for Manchester United, lauded the 22-year-old following his excellent showing against Plzen.

Brown told MUTV, as quoted by United in Focus:

“Mazraoui, you don’t really notice him but he does everything right, he doesn’t give his man much time at all and that’s what you want from a defender.”

Mazraoui registered three tackles, one interception, five recoveries, and three clearances against Viktoria Plzen.