Manchester United’s right-back position saw plenty of speculation back in the summer.
United were strongly linked with signing Kieran Trippier, The Athletic reported, which also referenced interest from Borussia Dortmund in Diogo Dalot.
Dalot scored for United in a pre-season victory over Everton and this seemed to make up the club’s mind to stick, rather than pay up for Trippier.
Just as key to the situation was Dalot’s desire to stay, rather than pursue a move abroad.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Dalot has explained why he was not interested in a Dortmund switch.
Dalot said: “I wanted to stay here and the club trusted me to stay here. My mind was completely focused on having an important role in this team.
“It’s been a fantastic journey in the last couple of years to grow up. I’m still very young but it is a learning process and I think I’m on a good journey.”
Battle to get into the team
The biggest problem for Dalot is United’s reliance on Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back.
Dalot has started only two matches this season, one of which came because Wan-Bissaka was suspended.
The defender is not bitter about his lack of action, and feels confident he will get his opportunity to shine.
Dalot added: “The most beautiful and healthy competition is when there are two or three for each position and you can learn from each othe.
“I’m sure Aaron learns some things from me when I play, I learn from him. Everyone is going to be a part of it this season.”
Wan-Bissaka has been in poor form and so there could be a chance for Dalot to make a case for himself over the coming weeks.
He sounds like he will be happy to stay put in January, although this is likely to be put to the test.
Corriere dello Sport report Dalot is a target for Jose Mourinho at Roma, the manager who signed him for Manchester United in 2018.
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