Amad Diallo is heading back to Manchester United after Ivory Coast were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Manchester United have had to manage the congested winter fixture list without three key players, all away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Bryan Mbeumo is expected back with United this week after his side lost to Morocco in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Noussair Mazraoui’s Morocco will take on Nigeria in the next round.
Amad has been one of the standout performers at AFCON, scoring three goals in five matches and making a strong impression throughout the tournament.
But his run came to an end on Saturday when Ivory Coast lost 3-2 to Egypt. He will now rejoin a United squad that could use his energy and attacking flair as they push through a demanding part of the season.
Amad Diallo speaks out after AFCON exit
Amad has every reason to hold his head high after AFCON, finishing as his nation’s top scorer.
After the loss, he turned to Instagram to express how he was feeling.
“Broken dream but very happy with the group we had. We will come back stronger than ever,” he posted.
Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt were among the first to show their support, liking his post soon after it went up.
United supporters will share Amad’s disappointment, but they will also be extremely excited to see him back at Old Trafford.
Amad Diallo’s expected return date for Man United
Amad will not be ready to face Brighton in the FA Cup on Sunday, as he played his last game at AFCON with Ivory Coast on Saturday.
The focus then shifts to the derby against Manchester City the following Saturday. By then, both Amad and Mbeumo are expected to be available for selection.
Darren Fletcher will be on the touchline against Brighton, but there is talk that an interim manager could be in place before the City game.
When Amad and Mbeumo return, they will find a very different set-up at United compared to when they left for AFCON. Their first match back is likely to come under new management.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
