Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made it clear that Amad Diallo will not be recalled from Sunderland during the January transfer window. The Ivorian winger has developed into an unstoppable force for the Black Cats.
Amad has started only 12 games, but he still has six goals and one assist to his name. After a disappointing stint with Rangers last season, the 20-year-old enjoyed success with Sunderland.
The former Atalanta youth product signed with United in January 2021 for a fee of up to £37 million, although he has played only 331 minutes at Old Trafford since then. However, there have been rumours that United may try to bring Amad back from the Stadium of Light.
Ten Hag on recalling Amad: "We consider everything. I see his potential, but when we decide for Amad Diallo to return he has to be a player for the starting eleven". 🔴 #MUFC
"I've a little bit of a reservation for that because I don’t want to stop his great progress on loan". pic.twitter.com/OwPQy1Zq4r
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 3, 2023
The Red Devils wanted to sign Cody Gakpo as a Cristiano Ronaldo replacement, but the winger decided to sign for Liverpool. Amad had been considered a player to provide Ten Hag an additional option without having to spend any money during the winter window because there were so few targets available at a good price.
However, the United boss seems to have ruled out the option of curtailing Amad’s loan. Instead, Ten Hag has admitted that it would be ideal for the young attacker to play regularly for Sunderland.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Dutch boss said:
“We consider everything, but I have a little bit of reservation about that because I don’t want to stop the process. He’s made really good progress there so I’m happy with that.”
“When we decide for him to come back, he has to be a player who can compete for the starting line-up or come on for a lot of games and make an impact.”
United are lacking attacking options upfront, with Anthony Martial being the only viable option. Marcus Rashford was allowed to play as a striker before the French striker’s return to action. However, the English winger is performing well on the flanks, and it will make little sense to shift his position.
It would be far better for the club to hunt for a new striker rather than stay limited with their options. Diallo’s time at Sunderland will help both the player and the club keep him as an option. His progress will help him gain confidence, which in turn will fix his place in the squad for years to come.
