Ruben Amorim intends to deploy Amad Diallo in the wing-back position once he recovers from injury, as United missed out on Geovany Quenda

Manchester United’s new manager, Rúbem Amorim, is already making waves with his tactical vision for the team. One of the most intriguing revelations in recent days is his plan to deploy Amad Diallo as a wing-back once the Ivorian recovers from his current injury. This unexpected shift could be a game-changer for United, especially after the club missed out on signing highly-rated Portuguese prospect Geovany Quenda.

Diallo, known for his explosive pace, technical ability, and attacking flair, has primarily played as a winger throughout his career. However, Amorim sees him as a potential asset in a more hybrid role, one that would allow him to contribute both defensively and offensively. The move comes after United’s failure to secure Quenda, who instead opted for a move to Chelsea in a £42 million deal.

During a press conference, Amorim hinted at his tactical flexibility, stating, “The only option right now depends on if he wants to. But I will do everything in our power to make this work.” This statement suggests that while Diallo’s transition to wing-back is not set in stone, the coaching staff is seriously considering the possibility.

The idea of shifting an attacking player to a more defensive role is not new in football. Many players, including Manchester United legend Antonio Valencia and Chelsea’s Victor Moses, successfully transitioned from wingers to full-backs or wing-backs under tactically astute managers. If Diallo can adapt, this change could unlock new dimensions in United’s play.

United’s current squad lacks depth in the wide defensive areas, which may be another reason why Amorim is considering this move. With the departure of several players and injuries plaguing the team, an internal solution could be the most efficient way to ensure stability in defense while maintaining attacking potency.

Fans are divided over the prospect of Diallo playing as a wing-back. Some believe that his pace and dribbling ability make him an ideal candidate for the role, especially in a system that emphasizes wing-backs contributing heavily in attack. Others, however, fear that his defensive skills may not be strong enough to cope with the demands of the position.

Amorim is known for his ability to extract the best from his players by using innovative tactical adjustments. His time at Sporting CP saw him transform several players into top-class performers, and Manchester United supporters will be eager to see whether he can repeat that success at Old Trafford.

The decision to use Diallo in a wing-back role also reflects Amorim’s long-term vision for United. He prefers dynamic, high-energy players who can transition quickly between attack and defense, and Diallo fits that profile. His ability to take on defenders, whip in dangerous crosses, and make darting runs could make him a serious threat from deep areas of the pitch.

Defensively, Diallo would need to improve his positioning and tackling ability to thrive in the role. Playing as a wing-back requires significant discipline, something he will need to develop under Amorim’s guidance. If he can adapt, he could become one of the most exciting and versatile players in United’s squad.

His recovery from injury will be crucial in determining how quickly he can adjust to this new role. Having been sidelined for months due to an ankle ligament injury, Diallo is nearing a return to training. United’s medical team will closely monitor his progress to ensure he regains full fitness before being reintegrated into the squad.

The failure to land Geovany Quenda has been a significant blow for United’s transfer strategy. The young Portuguese midfielder was seen as a key addition to reinforce the team’s wide attacking options. However, Amorim appears determined to make the best of the situation by finding solutions within the squad rather than lamenting missed opportunities.

While many expected Diallo to be integrated as a winger, his potential reinvention as a wing-back could make him an invaluable asset in the long run. United’s attacking setup often relies on full-backs and wing-backs to provide width, and Diallo’s skill set could make him a devastating option in this role.

The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining whether Amorim follows through with this idea. Pre-season friendlies and training sessions will provide an opportunity for Diallo to test himself in the position before being thrown into competitive matches. If the experiment proves successful, United could have a new tactical weapon at their disposal.

Ultimately, the success of this transition will depend on Diallo’s willingness to adapt and the coaching staff’s ability to refine his defensive attributes. If all goes well, this could be one of the most fascinating tactical shifts in Manchester United’s recent history.

As Diallo edges closer to a return, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see if this bold experiment will pay off. If it does, Amorim could be hailed as a master tactician who turned an injury setback into a tactical revolution for the Red Devils.