Amad had a poor season for Manchester United during the 2025/26 campaign, but he has been back to his best for the Ivory Coast this summer.
After such a strong breakout season under Ruben Amorim, 2025/26 was a clear back step for Amad.
Just two goals in the league all season simply wasn’t good enough, seeing many grow weary of Amad’s lack of contribution for Manchester United.
But Michael Carrick will be thrilled by the sight of how Amad has been performing for the Ivory Coast at the World Cup.
What is your message for Amad Diallo after suffering elimination from the World Cup with the Ivory Coast?
Amad came off the bench to score against Norway, but it wasn't enough to secure a place in the last 16. 🇨🇮❌
Amad needs to bring Ivory Coast form to Manchester United
Tuesday night saw Amad crash out of the World Cup with Ivory Coast at the hands of Erling Haaland’s Norway.
He was devastated, but he can hold his head high with his performances.
Amad scored twice in his debut World Cup campaign, giving his country a glimmer of hope, both times from the bench stepping up to score his sides only goal.
Carrick will be watching this with delight, seeing Amad find form and his goal scoring shoes, because for United he doesn’t score those chances, with his misses of big chances costing the club.
But if he can return as this version of himself, then United could be in for a treat next season.
Amad’s poor season for United needed to just be a one off, and by rediscovering his brilliance during the World Cup, Carrick can be hopeful of getting back a player who is far better than the one he had from January to May.
This version of Amad could be key for United in the coming campaign. No longer should United be worrying about his form or thinking of a sale, he’s proven his class remains and now pre-season beckons.
By scoring in such high pressure situations, it also shows Amad’s leadership on the pitch in the big moments.
What does success for Man Utd look like for you in 2026/27?
While it's early days (we need new signings) – tell us what you think United should be aiming for?
Amad should be on free-kicks for United next season
Not only was Amad so effective from the bench, but his cameo against Norway might have got even better.
At 2-1, Amad took a free-kick from quite far out which was destined for the top corner if not for a diving save from the goalkeeper.
It was a magnificent hit which should see Amad able to step up and tell Carrick he wants to be on free-kicks.
Speaking on BBC One after the game, the free-kick received attention from former United coach Benni McCarthy.
“This little guy man, he’s got so much potent in his leg. To hit it from that range and the power that he generates and the accuracy.”
Amad could emerged to be a strong free-kick taker for United, especially on his left-foot, and while it didn’t go in, it should give him the confidence to put himself forward.
The 2026/27 campaign could be huge for Amad and potentially see him take that next step to take the reins for United.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
