In modern football, the pressure from public opinion and social media can sometimes be harsher than what happens on the pitch. This is exactly the situation Amad Diallo of MU is facing, as the star continuously endures criticism for his lackluster performance and actions deemed insensitive.
1. MU’s 2-1 win against Chelsea seemed like a positive step forward for the whole team, but it turned into a dark moment for Amad Diallo. In that match, he was deployed as a number 10 but hardly left any mark. Statistics revealed that Amad did not produce any significant passes, failed in both dribbling attempts, and lost the ball eight times.
After the match, a flood of criticism came his way. Many supporters felt this was probably Amad’s worst showing since joining the Red Devils. Some even called on coach Ruben Amorim to keep him on the bench for an extended period to regain his focus.
Even worse, Amad faced issues off the pitch. A photo he posted with his close friend Alejandro Garnacho—who had transferred from MU to Chelsea—became a pretext for some fans to attack him. Within one night, Amad had to delete all his Instagram posts to avoid the backlash.
Amad’s biggest problem is that he has yet to demonstrate growth both in his playing style and behavior. From holding the ball too long, overly complicated individual moves, to lacking subtlety in his off-field conduct, all have turned him into the center of disappointment.
2. Looking at what Amad is going through, fans can’t help but recall the case of Harry Maguire a few years ago. The English defender was once a “scapegoat” at Old Trafford. Every mistake he made was exaggerated and turned into an online joke. Many rival fans and even MU supporters mocked him, sometimes calling for him to be removed from the team.
Amad Diallo is disappointing both on and off the pitch.
At his lowest point, Maguire was seen as a burden and was frequently dropped from the starting lineup. For a player, becoming the focus of criticism and being turned against by both the club and fans is a devastating blow. But Maguire did not give up.
Instead of surrendering, he worked hard, accepted being on the bench, and waited for his chance to return. When Ruben Amorim gave him an opportunity in the recent match against Chelsea, Maguire played solidly, forming a strong defensive trio with De Ligt and Luke Shaw. That game also marked his 250th appearance for MU.
More importantly, Maguire regained respect. From being the “laughingstock” of social media, he became a symbol of resilience, a shining example of perseverance in top-level football.
3. Maguire’s story is a vivid lesson for Amad Diallo. First, Amad needs to learn to accept criticism. At MU, the pressure is always immense and no player is exempt. Instead of reacting by deleting posts, staying silent, and isolating himself, Amad should face public opinion by improving his performances on the field.
Second, Amad must adjust his attitude towards playing football. Maguire was once criticized for being slow and clumsy, but he focused on improving his fitness and keeping his playing style simple and safe. For Amad, the problem isn’t a lack of skill but using it incorrectly. He needs to learn to prioritize the team’s benefit, passing at the right moment rather than seeking personal glory.
Third, Amad must learn patience. Maguire spent long periods on the bench without publicly complaining. He waited for the right moment, seized his opportunity, and gradually returned. Amad also needs to be prepared for the possibility of losing his starting spot, especially since Cunha has returned from injury.
Finally, Amad must learn to separate personal friendships from his professional image. Friendship with Garnacho is normal, but showing it at a sensitive time backfired. Maguire endured countless jokes but never gave the public more reasons to criticize him. This is a crucial lesson in wisdom within the environment of elite football.