Video: United star sends message to Amorim over key man he must “100%” keep at Old Trafford

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November 8, 2024

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Interim Manchester United manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has given an insight into the level of Amad Diallo’s dedication, mentality and desire to improve, following his stellar performance in the 2-0 win over PAOK.

Amad scored both goals as the Red Devils registered their first Europa League victory of the campaign.

The Ivorian found himself dubiously frozen out of the team in the latter stages of Erik ten Hag’s United tenure. Van Nistelrooy handed Amad his first start in seven games against PAOK and the player certainly didn’t disappoint.

In his post-match interview with TNT, Van Nistelrooy waxed lyrical about Amad, hailing him as the difference-maker at Old Trafford.

In his presser, Van Nistelrooy delved into greater detail about Amad’s professionalism and explained that he requests extra sessions to refine his game.

The Dutch coach told reporters, “Yes, he’s a great character, a hard worker, he shows it in every training session.”

“So that attitude and also extra work. Every day after training he comes to me and he wants to do extra finishing, extra crossing, extra one-vs-ones, extra how can I improve my shot, how can I improve my heading, etc. etc. etc.”

“He’s constantly focused on learning, getting better, living a very professional way so he’s very motivated to get the maximum out of his career. After so many games he didn’t start but he had a great performance today, so very pleased for him.”

Van Nistelrooy added, “I think the second goal had everything in it. That for me is Amad Diallo. He fought to take the ball off the PAOK defender and then he pushed through to get the shot and in the end he had the quality to bend it around the goalkeeper. So that sums him up.”

On whether Amad was energised by a need to impress having been overlooked several times in the past few weeks, Van Nistelrooy stressed, “Apparently so because I think he was excellent.”

“In the first half he was our best player. Already he looked sharp, he did well, second half he decided the game for us with two important goals, so he did excellent.”

Amad was taken off with around 10 minutes of regular time left on the clock and replaced by Mason Mount.

Amidst fears that he could have sustained an injury, Van Nistelrooy stated, “He had to come off, unfortunately. He’s being assessed now and I hope he will be available for Sunday but we have to wait and see. His qualities are clear, the way he presented himself today was excellent and important for this team.”

Up next for United is Leicester City.

Featured image Naomi Baker via Getty Images

Derick Kinoti

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

Ruud: It’s great to share these moments

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November 8, 2024

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Ruud: It’s great to share these moments

Thursday 07 November 2024 23:00

Ruud van Nistelrooy hailed Amad’s decisive impact in Manchester United’s Europa League victory over PAOK and was happy, overall, with the players’ performance.

The Reds struggled for a spark in the first period at Old Trafford on Thursday night before our no.16 stepped up with a double – a fine header and delightful solo goal – to seal our first European win of the season.

With United unbeaten in our last three games, van Nistelrooy was in the dugout for what was his penultimate match in interim charge, before Ruben Amorim takes over the reins next week.

Scroll down to watch Ruud’s post-match interview with MUTV and read his thoughts speaking to the official broadcasters…

Ruud: Why we improved after half-time Video

Ruud: Why we improved after half-time

Interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy explains what his team did better in the second half against PAOK…

SECOND HALF WAS MUCH BETTER

“It was a pretty poor first half, if I’m being nice. The second half was way better. That was clear. Positionally, we weren’t good at all in the first half, we left our positions and were taking lots of other positions that we set. In their 4-4-2, there were four midfielders for us against their two so it gave them a problem. We were too much out of position and we didn’t get the game going. We were much better at that in the second half, we created more chances and scored two goals.”

AMAD MADE THE DIFFERENCE

“He made a difference for us today, because of his goals but he was very sharp. I think in the first half, he was one of the few who was at his level. Well done to him, good game. His first goal was a good goal and a good Bruno assist. We like when we were in those spaces where Bruno was to put the ball in between the keeper and the backline – you can see the three players in the movement, it’s something we’ve worked on a lot since the beginning of the season. They are always dangerous areas to cross from and we needed this. Amad made his own goal [for the second goal], Christian [Eriksen] tried to cross it and then he came inside on his left and getting it in the far post was excellent. He won his own duel and took the shot for the goal – a good goal.”

LEAVING OUR POSITIONS DID NOT HELP THE TEAM

“I tried to say it to the whole team. If we can keep those positions, the 10s, it was Amad today from the right inside, with [Noussair] Mazraoui high up and Bruno on the other side – that’s two players who can play in these spaces. If we can get from the sixes to them, or via the sides to them, then we have everything to play for and we get Rasmus [Hojlund] with his runs. It was actually the first good attack in the game where we found him behind the pressure. The pass was a little bit short for Rasmus when he made the run and it’s exactly what we wanted to achieve. But then we left our positions so much again and it’s all goodwill but not helping the team. Not only Bruno but more players. In the second half, we stayed more in those positions and found each other easier which led to more danger.”

THREE ADDITIONS TO TEAM PLAYED WELL

“I think Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans did really well as centre-backs and Amad had a great game. So I’m pleased with the performances – they did really well. Other players had some minutes, like Lisandro Martinez, plus Christian Eriksen and Mason Mount too, after injury. So I’m happy, overall, with all these things.”

A YEAR SINCE OUR LAST EUROPEAN WIN

“Overall, I said to the lads before the game that it was a year ago since the last European win at Old Trafford. We looked at that and we couldn’t believe it. The players were motivated to win at Old Trafford in Europe. It was time get that changed and turn it around, build and change. It’s a big period at the club.”

A FINAL GAME IN CHARGE ON SUNDAY

“For me, it was important to get results. I can only be happy with the performance that the players put in. The bit that I could do to help, I enjoy it, but Sunday is another one and I’m so focused on doing that so I’m not thinking of what is next. There will be time to do so. I’m enjoying being around this team. The connection with the players is very good with the way they are responding. It’s great to share the moments on the pitch together. It’s a wonderful thing and I’m happy things are working out.”

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6/8 duels, 2 key passes: United stalwart shows why he is a key part of his team’s midfield in 2-0 win over PAOK

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November 8, 2024

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Manchester United eased to a 2-0 victory over PAOK Salonika in the Europa League on Thursday night, extending Ruud van Nistelrooy’s impressive run as interim manager.

Although they saw just 53% possession, Man United were comfortable on the ball, proving to be effective at passing and improving their build-up play significantly compared to earlier in the season under Erik ten Hag.

A grand 16 shots were taken by United compared to just eight from the visitors, showing just how much United have tightened up at the back while also upping the amount of midfield pressure they apply to the opposition.

At the heart of United’s midfield success was Casemiro.

Early in the first half, PAOK got a rare shot on goal from close range; however, Casemiro bravely stood in the way to block a shot that goalkeeper Andre Onana did not look certain to save. This action by the Brazilian may have swayed the course of the match in United’s favour.

In addition to blocking this shot, Casemiro produced a tackle, clearance, and interception, making for a well-rounded defensive performance to provide ample support to his back four.

Casemiro was as physically strong as ever, winning six of his eight total duels. He came off best in four of his six ground duels while winning both of his aerial battles on the night.

The only issue with the midfielder’s defensive showing was a slight lack of discipline. Casemiro gave away three fouls, picking up a yellow card in the process.

Casemiro’s passing game was also near its peak, with 47 of his 58 attempted passes finding their mark for an 81% passing accuracy.

One of his two crosses found their target, as did two of his three long balls.

The centre-mid’s playmaking abilities were also on display as he supplied two key passes.

Having completed his only dribbling attempt on the night, Casemiro’s shooting was one of his only underwhelming areas of play. He took three shots, two of which were off-target and one which was blocked.

Ultimately, it was a respectable performance from Casemiro. He has rediscovered his consistency in recent times, overcoming a patch of underwhelming performances and proving once again why he is a key component of United’s midfield.

(Stats via Sofascore)

Mathew Cohen

A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.

Amad named Man of the Match v PAOK

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November 8, 2024

Thursday 07 November 2024 22:03

Amad was the overwhelming winner of our Man of the Match poll following his wonderful display against PAOK at Old Trafford.

The Reds’ no.16 scored both goals in the second half of a 2-0 triumph at the Theatre of Dreams – our first win in European action this term.

The brightest spark of a goalless first half, Amad brought the contest to life within minutes of the half-time restart, cleverly sending Bruno Fernandes’s cross over goalkeeper Dominik Kotarksi with a looping header from the back post and into the far corner, off the inside of the left-hand post.

The 22-year-old then made sure of our win – as well as his status as the standout performer of the night – by scoring a wondrous second goal with 13 minutes left on the clock.

Robbing former Chelsea defender Abdul Baba Rahman of possession around 35 yards from goal, courtesy of his great persistence, Amad drove past the PAOK defender and cut on to his favoured left foot to curl home his third United goal of the campaign, and sixth overall.

It was a remarkable second goal that perfectly epitomised the overall display of the Ivorian attacker this evening.

“It’s been a long time since we won in Europe,” Amad said in an interview with TNT Sports. “Today we showed why we are one of the best teams. It was important to win today.

“It is important to score every time. This season I have been unlucky so I am happy to score two today. But the most important thing was to win.

“I like to celebrate with the fans and make people happy.”

On winning the ball back for his second goal, he added: “It came from work we did in the training. We have to press the opposing team.”

Amad would have been recognised primarily for his goalscoring heroics, but his determination off the ball would not have gone unnoticed by voting supporters, either.

He also could have won a penalty in the first half, with our appeals dismissed following a VAR check, following a challenge on him by Rahman, with another near miss in the form of an assist arriving minutes later when his cross teed up Rasmus Hojlund to head home, but his attempt was held by Kotarski.

He drew a further save from opposition stopper Kotarski with a right-footed drive from close range in the second half, too.

Which was Amad’s favourite goal? Video

Which was Amad’s favourite goal?

Amad starts his post-match chat with MUTV by picking out his favourite from the two goals he scored against PAOK…

All of that combined to see the vibrant forward earn the recognition of 93 per cent of fans voting in our post-match poll on ManUtd.com and in the United app. Unsurprisingly, he was also the winner of TNT Sports’ equivalent award.

Congratulations to Amad on a fantastic performance and winning our post-match poll.

Amad & Ruud van Nistelrooy React To Europa League Win!

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November 8, 2024

Video: Van Nistelrooy waxes lyrical about “sharp” United star who “made the difference” in win vs. PAOK

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November 7, 2024

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Interim Manchester United manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has heaped praise on Amad Diallo following his contributions in the side’s 2-0 win over PAOK on Thursday night.

United got their first Europa League victory of the season, courtesy of a sensational second-half brace by Amad.

The Ivorian has recently found minutes hard to come by but he certainly didn’t disappoint when given a start by Van Nistelrooy against PAOK.

After the final whistle, Van Nistelrooy spoke to TNT Sports and reacted to the team’s performance and Amad’s heroics.

The Dutch coach said, “It was a pretty poor first half and I’m being nice. Second half was way better, that was clear. I think Amad made the difference today. Obviously because of his goals but he was sharp, I think even in the first half, he was one of the few who were at the level.”

“So well done to him and good game. I think positionally we weren’t good at all…we left our positions. We were taking other positions than we set because, in their 4-4-2, there were four midfielders for us against the two to give them a problem…so too much out of position. We didn’t get the game going and the second half was a lot better and then we got into the game.”

He lauded Bruno Fernandes for his superb cross that led to Amad’s headed finish.

Reacting to Amad’s second strike, Van Nistelrooy told TNT, “He made his own goal. Christian [Eriksen] tried to cross it and then coming inside with the left, getting it in the far post was excellent. He won his own duel and took the shot for the goal, so good goal.”

Van Nistelrooy revealed that Amad has been “incredible” in training and hasn’t been affected by the limited playing time he has been afforded.

Paul Scholes asked Van Nistelrooy about Fernandes’ failure to remain in his playmaking position in the middle of the park.

The Dutchman replied, “I tried to say it to the whole team [to remain in their positions]. If we can keep those positions…the 10s…and it was Amad today from the right inside with Mazraoui higher up and Bruno on the other side. Those are two players who can play in the spaces. If we can get it[the ball] from the 6s to them, or from the sides to them then we have everything to play for.”

Once again, Van Nistelrooy insisted that he wants to remain at Old Trafford even after Ruben Amorim officially takes charge of the team.

The former Red joked that he has been repeatedly checking his phone in anticipation of United’s confirmation that he will stay at the club.

“We looked at that and thought, we can’t believe this”

Ruud van Nistelrooy is determined to help improve Manchester United’s performances following their first European win at Old Trafford in over a year 📈

🎙@JulesBreach pic.twitter.com/PvQd4Ps6KF

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 7, 2024

Van Nistelrooy’s last game in the dugout will see him lead the team against Leicester City on Sunday.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

Derick Kinoti

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

Paul Scholes makes huge Van Nistelrooy claim after Europa League triumph

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November 7, 2024

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Ruud van Nistelrooy led Manchester United to their first Europa League win of the season, a 2-0 triumph over PAOK at Old Trafford tonight, and for Paul Scholes he has done enough to be the team’s permanent manager.

Speaking on TNT Sports after the game, Scholes was full of praise for the Dutch interim manager, stating categorically “I think he should be manager.”

“Just watching him in three games, he did well in Holland, he won the Dutch cup, he won other things, he just looks like he’s made to be a manager,” he continued.

“I think he’s better than being an assistant manager, I think he should be managing a club.”

Nevertheless, the United legend said he is “excited” for the arrival of Ruben Amorim, who will step into the hotseat on Monday, although neither Scholes nor fellow pundit Karen Carney thinks there will be an immediate fix.

Carney warned that “there may be a little bit more suffering” before the Portuguese can get the Red Devils up to speed and challenging for the top four, with Scholes adding that it “could take six weeks” before we even see Amorim’s style of play take hold.

United made heavy work of beating the Greek champions, grimly holding on to a 1-0 lead for nearly half an hour before Amad Diallo doubled the advantage and his personal tally with a wonderful effort from range to tie up the points.

The win leaves them 15th in the table, in the middle of the playoff places, and Amorim will still have plenty of work to do to take United through to the next round.

But despite shortcomings all over the pitch, Scholes did see some green shoots in the middle of the park: “Casemiro and [Manuel] Ugarte could be the start of something.

“Looking forward towards Amorim, it’s a partnership that could be good together. It allows Bruno a little bit more freedom up the top of the pitch.”

He also backed Rasmus Hojlund to replicate the goalscoring heroics of Sporting Lisbon’s free-scoring centre forward Viktor Gyökeres, who has been key to Amorim’s success in Portugal.

“I was a little bit disappointed in Hojlund [tonight], he had a tough night, a difficult night. I think he will improve, I think he will get better once he’s coached by a coach who will believe I him.

“I’m not saying Ruud doesn’t believe in him, but we’ve seen the effect that the centre forward has over in Sporting Lisbon and I think Hojlund is capable of that.”

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

Joe Ponting

Joe has spent more than half his life writing about football and all of it following United. As a child he told a doctor his name was ‘Paul Scholes’, but could never pick a pass like him no matter how much he tried.

Ruud: Amad is a great example

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November 7, 2024

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ManUtd.com reporter Adam Marshall at Old Trafford.

Thursday 07 November 2024 23:04

Ruud van Nistelrooy says Amad’s attitude in training has been exemplary, as the focus was sharply on the Ivory Coast international following his two goals in Manchester United’s win over PAOK.

The winger’s efforts earned a 2-0 triumph in the Europa League, our first victory in the competition this term, and was just reward for a positive individual performance from the outset.

In a first start since early October, Amad took his chance to impress with both hands and it is only hoped that an injury which forced him off the field will not rule him out of contention for Sunday’s return to Premier League action, against Leicester City, in our final fixture before the international break.

Amad converted a Bruno Fernandes cross with a looping header, five minutes after the interval, before a stunning second was all his own work. Robbing Baba Rahman of possession, he kept his feet when clearly fouled by the PAOK defender and curled a beauty into the far corner of the net.

Ruud: Why we improved after half-time Video

Ruud: Why we improved after half-time

Interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy explains what his team did better in the second half against PAOK…

“He made a difference for us today because of his goals,” van Nistelrooy told TNT Sports. “But he was very sharp. I think, in the first half, he was one of the few who was at his level. Well done to him, good game.

“His first goal was a good goal and a good Bruno assist. We like when we were in those spaces, where Bruno was to put the ball in between the keeper and the backline – you can see the three players in the movement, it’s something we’ve worked on a lot since the beginning of the season.

“They are always dangerous areas to cross from and we needed this. Amad made his own goal [for the second goal], Christian [Eriksen] tried to cross it and then he came inside on his left and getting it in the far post was excellent. He won his own duel and took the shot for the goal – a good goal. He has been incredible actually in training, he was never affected by not playing. He always trains well and is asking me to do more. That’s an example.”

The only negative for the Man of the Match on the night was that he was substituted after receiving treatment. He actually took a knock very early in proceedings and, hopefully, the problem is not sufficient to keep him out at the weekend.

“He’s being checked now,” explained Ruud. “I hope it’s not a big injury, of course, because he did very well. Of course, he had to come off but we have to wait and see what the injury is.

“Of course, I hope that he will be available for Sunday but we have to wait and see.”

Now is the time to buy your Amad merchandise!

Video: United hero in win vs. PAOK reacts to his role in helping the club end humiliating streak in Europe

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November 7, 2024