United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United is finally off and running in the Europa League, as Amad Diallo’s two goals earned the Reds a 2-0 victory over PAOK. Van Nistelrooy’s team now sits 15th on six points despite not having lost yet.

Amad Diallo scored twice in his first start since October 3rd. The Ivorian winger started the season high on Ten Hag’s list yet inexplicably fell down the pecking order. Interim manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy gave Amad an opportunity, and he took it.

Diallo’s first came off a looping header that beat the goalkeeper and far-side defender. United fans will remember that Amad’s first-ever United goal came off a header in the Europa League against AC Milan.

The 22-year-old found the net again after winning the ball back in attack. Once he gained possession, Amad dribbled, found the space to shoot, and fired a well-placed finish past the outstretched goalkeeper.

The Greek champions had multiple clear-cut opportunities yet were unable to finish. The best chance came shortly before United’s second and could have been a major momentum swing late on.

Although the performance wasn’t the strongest, the final result is what truly counts. Amad Diallo demonstrated why he deserves consideration when Amorim takes over. Matthijs De Ligt and Lisandro Martinez were able to rest after a busy few weeks. Jonny Evans made a solid return to the starting lineup alongside Victor Lindelof, who has been given a few more opportunities recently.

Manchester United’s final match under Ruud Van Nistelrooy comes Sunday when the Reds face Leicester again. Ruben Amorim will be in charge of the next European contest when United hosts Bodø/Glimt.