“It gives us energy”: United speedster names the one Old Trafford matchday ritual that players love

Manchester United have been playing John Denver’s iconic “Country Roads” ahead of kick-off since last season. The 1971 track has rung around the stands with adapted lyrics for decades, but it has taken a more prominent role since last campaign. Now the song sets the mood ahead of home games, with match-going fans delivering a heartfelt version of the classic, professing their love for the Red Devils. Written by Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert and Denver, the original number is one of West Virginia’s four official anthems and is also among Denver’s most popular tracks. The song, which speaks of one’s yearning for a place they truly belong to, soon resonated with United fans and their deep connection with the club. It is no wonder that the adapted lyrics tugged at the hearts of fans and players alike, and it was adopted as an Old Trafford anthem last year, with captain Bruno Fernandes playing a key role in the decision. Amad Diallo has now shed light on the players’ reaction to the whole stadium singing “Country Roads”. Energised by the Anthem Speaking in the first issue of the newly launched United magazine, as cited by the club’s website, Amad revealed that the players feel energised by the song. He said: “I love the song at Old Trafford where everyone sings together too: ‘Take me home, United Road, to the place I belong, to Old Trafford, to see United, take me home United Road…’ Every time when they put that song on, I sing it in my head.” “Even in the dressing room we play that song sometimes before we go to the pitch, to remember: wow, we are playing for Manchester United. It gives us energy.” “You see the fans singing the song and you think: today is the day, we have to win for them. Then when you start playing you are so relaxed, because [you know] the fans are there to help you.” United have transformed Old Trafford into a fortress of late, losing just two home games in the Premier League this season. Amad’s season so far Amad has emerged as a key figure for Manchester United in the past 18 months. The Ivorian previously struggled for game time under Erik ten Hag, but was handed a lifeline following Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford in November 2024. Not only did Amad embrace the Portuguese head coach’s 3-4-3 system, but he also excelled in the right-sided wing-back role. His steady rise was halted by an injury last season, but the 23 year old has retained his importance in the team this season as well, although he has not been as prolific in front of goal. Amad Diallo Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsOtherOther 2Minutes Played Premier League2019232-1,654′ EFL Cup11—-82′ Total2120232-1,736′ Source: Transfermarkt. The Ivorian has retained his place in the starting XI under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, despite a switch to the 4-2-3-1 system, and has made the right forward role his own. His work ethic and attacking threat have also endeared him to fans. Final Thoughts United have a very strong connection with their fans and John Denver’s masterpiece has helped further strengthen that bond. As the Red Devils work to regain their lost glory, the emotional connection of this pre-match ritual will continue to be an inspiration for players and fans alike. Take me home, United Road 🎶 pic.twitter.com/XhTsf0O8v6 — utdreport (@utdreport) October 28, 2025 Featured image Carl Recine 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.