Amad Diallo shines as Manchester United defeat Newcastle United 3-2 | OneFootball

In what was a rare composed performance this season, Manchester United managed to hold on for a 3-2 victory over Newcastle United in their final match at Old Trafford this season.

While little can be done to improve Man United’s standing in the Premier League with only one game to go, a win was nonetheless important, especially as Erik ten Hag’s side prepares to face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on 25 May.

Compared to their previous batch of results, United appeared to improve in several facets of play, particularly when it came to their defence as well as attacking build-ups. Although the back four capitulated near the end of the match to give the visitors a chance at clawing their way back for a draw, it was United’s attacking lineup who ultimately saved the day.

Amad Diallo proved to be an essential part of United’s attack on the night, making his presence known from the start.

A constant threat in the final third, Amad’s impact was already felt in the 31st minute, when he spotted Kobbie Mainoo running into the box unmarked. He threaded the ball past a handful of Newcastle defenders to Mainoo, who was able to put away his shot to hand United the lead.

While United appeared dejected after Newcastle equalised in the 49th minute, it was Amad who rose to the occasion yet again to re-energise his team.

As Bruno Fernandes squared up to take a corner, Amad used his wit to position himself on the edge of the box where he went unnoticed by the visitors’ defence. As Fernandes’ cross was cut out by Kieran Trippier, Amad was perfectly positioned to pounce on the loose ball. With his first touch, he struck a thunderous shot on goal to restore United’s lead.

The youngster’s goal and assist came as little surprise given his many attacking contributions throughout the match. Amad got two shots on target, one off target, and a fourth shot that was blocked.

He exuded confidence on the ball, completing two of three dribbles and winning four of his eight ground duels as well as his only aerial duel of the match.

Amad’s passing game was also on point, with the 21 year old completing 23 of his 28 passes (82% accuracy) while contributing two key passes.

Interestingly, the Ivorian also made four defensive contributions, including one tackle, a clearance, and interception, and one block.

Ultimately, Amad emerged as United’s best player on the night, proving to be a constant goal threat as well as a playmaker that his opponents could not afford to take their eye off of.

It will be interesting to see how the starlet will impact United’s final two matches of the season and if he could perhaps guide his team to an unlikely FA Cup victory come May 25.

(Stats via Sofascore)

Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.