Ivorian and Manchester United Player, Amad Diallo’s second-half goals handed Manchester United the victory they needed, defeating Greek champions PAOK 2-0 in a crucial Europa League fixture. This win not only kick-starts United’s campaign but also provides incoming manager, Ruben Amorim with momentum in his bid to secure a top-eight finish in the competition.
Amad was United’s standout player and consistent threat in front of goal. Just five minutes into the second half, he broke the deadlock with a well-placed looping header into the far corner. He then doubled United’s lead 13 minutes from time, curling a precise shot from the edge of the area to seal the win.
PAOK’s best chance to score came from Tarik Tissoudali, who missed a close-range opportunity with only Andre Onana to beat. Onana, who was also pivotal, made a stunning save to deny Mady Camara during a slow first half.
This victory marks United’s second in their last 12 European outings and their first of the season, following three consecutive draws in the Europa League. United’s next game in the competition, against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in three weeks, will serve as Amorim’s debut home fixture.
United’s performance contrasted with Amorim’s current club, Sporting CP, which recently impressed in a 4-1 Champions League victory over Manchester City. Yet Amorim, set to join United shortly, might see the potential for growth among his new squad, despite the team’s need for improvement.
Amad Diallo Shines with Two-Goal Performance
Amad’s performance demonstrated his goal-scoring potential, even as questions remain about his consistency. Known for his willingness to take risks without overcomplicating plays, Amad has quickly become a focal point of United’s attack. His positive attitude on the pitch also appears to have won over team captain Bruno Fernandes, who responded to Amad’s minor error with encouragement—contrasting with his visible frustration towards Alejandro Garnacho earlier in the match.
Amad’s first goal came from a deep cross by Fernandes, with the winger rising to head the ball into the far corner, past PAOK goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski. His second goal was all his own doing, outmuscling Abdul Rahman Baba before curling a shot—taking a slight deflection—into the net. However, Amad’s night was cut short as he suffered a knock, and United will hope it’s nothing serious.
Top-Eight Target for New Manager Amorim
Fresh from Sporting’s Champions League success over Manchester City, Amorim will now be aiming to lift United into the Europa League’s top eight. United currently sit 15th, and climbing into the top eight would allow them to skip the February play-offs, advancing directly to the last 16 in March. This would be valuable for Amorim, who faces a packed schedule that includes seven midweek games within his first eight weeks if United progress in domestic cup competitions.
Despite Amad’s standout performance, questions remain over United’s goal-scoring consistency. Rasmus Hojlund once again struggled to make an impact, with his best chance—a header—falling comfortably to Kotarski.
The victory also reflects well on interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has now achieved two wins and a draw in three games since Erik ten Hag’s dismissal. Ten Hag might feel he could have delivered similar results, had he been granted more time.
With Amorim’s arrival imminent, United’s journey in the Europa League and their pursuit of improvement under his guidance is just beginning.
