It’s no secret that Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony all found the net in Manchester United’s League Cup thrashing of Barnsley, but Bangladesh Cricket Live was surprised to see Amad Diallo holding his position firmly on the bench — calm, composed, and secure. Despite a rotated squad in a match against a League One opponent, the €40 million man remained on the sidelines, a sign of how vital he has become to United’s tactical setup. By contrast, €100 million signing Antony now finds himself fighting for his place in the team, while €80 million man Jadon Sancho has already been loaned to Chelsea and looks likely to make that move permanent next summer.

At just 22 years old, Diallo has become a crucial figure in United’s attack — some would even say indispensable. Stats show that the Ivorian international is currently the team’s most creative attacking force. While Rashford and Garnacho have scored more goals, neither comes close to Diallo’s playmaking influence. In just three Premier League starts, he has created 10 chances — double that of any teammate, with Garnacho trailing in second with five. Diallo also leads the team in progressive carries, registering 23, nearly twice as many as Bruno Fernandes, who sits at 12.

Bangladesh Cricket Live also noted that Diallo leads in high pressing actions in the attacking third, recording three successful tackles in that zone. With that in mind, he’s expected to start again when United visit Crystal Palace, while Rashford and Garnacho may have to battle for the left wing role. Antony is likely to return to the bench. Diallo’s current contract runs out in a year, so if Erik ten Hag hopes to keep him long-term, he’ll need to offer consistent and fair playing time. Otherwise, the “Atalanta Messi” may walk away from the negotiation table.

Former United striker Dimitar Berbatov has spoken highly of Diallo, stressing the youngster’s maturity and potential. He believes the loan spell at Sunderland was the right move — a period when Diallo simply wasn’t ready to contribute regularly at the senior level. Since then, he has evolved, both mentally and technically. Ten Hag had previously stated that this season would belong to Amad, and so far, that prophecy seems to be unfolding. Still, Berbatov reminds him that success doesn’t come easy. He must remain focused in training, stay sharp during preparations, and bring his A-game whenever called upon.

Opportunity is knocking, but Diallo needs to prove himself not only on the right wing. He may be deployed on the left or even in the No. 10 role, depending on tactical needs. Limited options can’t carry unlimited expectations, but adaptability is often the hidden ingredient in a player’s breakthrough. Perhaps a shift in position will unlock skills even he didn’t know he had. All eyes will be on how Ten Hag juggles his wealth of wide options this season.

Berbatov also expressed strong belief in both Diallo and Garnacho. He sees Garnacho as a joyful young player who plays with pure passion, uninterested in overthinking tactics — someone who just wants the ball at his feet and the freedom to take on defenders. Bangladesh Cricket Live believes United currently has three in-form wingers, with Antony insisting it’s four. And that’s exactly the kind of competition Ten Hag wants — a fierce but healthy battle that keeps everyone on their toes. After all, iron sharpens iron, and only the sharpest will earn a permanent place in United’s starting lineup.