Amad Diallo: A Rising Star Honouring Friendship Through Football

Amad Diallo, born on July 11, 2002, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is an Ivorian professional footballer who plays as a winger or midfielder. He is currently signed with Manchester United and represents the Ivory Coast national team.

Amad emigrated to Italy at a young age, where he began his football career with Boca Barco’s youth team. His impressive performances in youth tournaments led to his recruitment by Atalanta’s youth academy in 2015.

After progressing through Atalanta’s youth system, Amad made his Serie A debut in October 2019. At that time, he became the first player born in 2002 to score in Italy’s top flight. During his tenure with Atalanta, he also made appearances in other competitions.

In January 2021, Amad signed with Manchester United for a fee that could rise to €40 million. His time at United began with excitement, as he scored on his debut for the U-23 team and quickly made his senior debut.

Amad’s journey with Manchester United included loan spells at Rangers and Sunderland. He returned to Manchester United’s first team in December 2023, where he scored significant goals, including a memorable winner in the FA Cup quarter-final against Milan in March 2024.

Internationally, Amad made his senior debut for Ivory Coast in March 2021 and scored his first international goal in June 2021. He also represented his country at the 2020 Summer Olympics.

One of the most emotional aspects of Amad’s career is his goal celebration. After scoring, he covers his right ear and left eye to pay tribute to his late friend and former Atalanta teammate, Willy Braciano Ta Bi. In an interview, Amad shared, “I wanted to remember him like that.”

This distinctive celebration has become a personal ritual, allowing Amad to honour his friend while marking his achievements on the field. As of August 2024, he has scored a total of 4 goals for Manchester United, along with contributions during his loan spells at Rangers and Sunderland.