Carrick has revived United’s £19m star after INEOS feared he’d become a “scapegoat” under Amorim – report

Manchester United have reportedly rallied around Diogo Dalot as the club are sensitive to mounting criticism against the full-back from the fanbase. Victim of the System Despite being one of Ruben Amorim‘s most trusted lieutenants, Dalot was arguably one of the biggest victims of the Portuguese coach’s system. A right-footed right-back by trade, the 26-year-old defender was deployed as a wing-back in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, and even often played on the left last season. This more advanced role, especially when stationed on his weaker side, does not suit the Portugal international’s skillset. However, his attitude and application meant he showed full commitment to the unfamiliar assignment, even at his own detriment. This selflessness and work rate will have won Amorim over, regardless of Dalot’s struggles on the pitch, as the former Sporting Clube de Portugal manager appointed him to be part of United’s leadership group. Alongside Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Tom Heaton, and Noussair Mazraoui, Dalot has maintained this position under Michael Carrick, who took over as caretaker last month after INEOS brought an end to Amorim’s tumultuous tenure. The legendary midfielder immediately transitioned to a 4-2-3-1 formation, restoring Dalot to his rightful home on the right of a back four – with the results speaking for themselves. Under Carrick, the Red Devils have made it three wins from three, putting Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham to the sword. Dalot has been at the heart of this impressive streak, offering solidity in defence and helping provide overlaps down the right, without the pressure of being the main attacking outlet out wide. A Scapegoat The Portuguese’s improved form has delighted the club’s hierarchy as it was felt he had become a “borderline scapegoat” for much of the fanbase. The Sun reveals United have “rallied round” Dalot, who is understood to be “popular” in the dressing room and often the player who “fronts up” for media obligations after defeats. The executive branch were “keen for Carrick to voice his support” for Dalot after he was appointed – with the 44-year-old coach praising the defender in one of his first press conferences. Conversely, Dalot has also hailed Carrick’s “calm” influence since taking the helm, with the pair having previously worked together at Old Trafford. “It’s been good. I mean, it’s always tough, and I’ve been through a couple of these scenarios (managerial changes) before, so it’s always tough because, when changing manager, there is always a little bit of uncertainty around.” “It does help knowing what you’re going to get because, sometimes, you don’t know what you’re going to expect. But knowing Michael from before, I knew, straight away, that a person would come that is calm and it gives you good energy every time.” Final Thoughts It’s interesting to note that one of Amorim’s key allies in the dressing room may, in fact, have been hindered by the head coach’s approach. The obvious candidate when assessing those who fell victim to the much-maligned 3-4-2-1 system is Kobbie Mainoo – but a right-footed full-back being forced to play left wing-back is certainly a strong case for second place. Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.