Diallo great performance: Manchester United player ratings in derby win over City
Liam Carter
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
Today's Manchester derby had all the makings of a spectacle even before kickoff. Ruben Amorim, now at the helm of Manchester United, had previously delivered a devastating blow to Manchester City while managing Sporting Lisbon. This time, however, he faced Pep Guardiola with a squad still searching for its identity after years of inconsistency.
The match itself was a grind, with City looking poised to claim a logical victory deep into the second half. But Amad Diallo had other plans, scripting a stunning twist to secure United's dramatic comeback victory.
This marks United's first victory over a major rival under Amorim, a crucial milestone for the team.
Let's take a closer look at the standout performers of this electrifying derby.
Amad Diallo
Amad was United's driving force in advancing the ball into City's danger areas. Despite being just 22 years old, the young winger is already proving to be a pivotal piece in United's attacking setup. His second-half performance exemplified his potential, as most of United's attacks were funneled through his flank. Diallo showcased his versatility with high pressing that led to winning the penalty, dazzling dribbles, clever runs behind defenders, pinpoint passes into the box, and a composed finish for the match-winner.
Without him, it’s hard to imagine how United would have generated consistent threats against City, especially with Garnacho unavailable. Diallo’s ability to break through defenses is something the team desperately relies on, highlighting a broader issue of a lack of creativity in the final third.
Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo stepped into the fray early as a replacement for Mason Mount, nominally filling in on the left wing but often operating centrally. His presence was vital in creating numerical superiority on United's preferred right-hand side. Mainoo effectively linked the defense and attack, ensuring United maintained balance and cohesion.
His ball control under pressure was remarkable, with moments where he navigated through City players unchallenged. Despite his defensive positioning, he made an impact in City's box, recording the second-most touches in the opposition penalty area after Diallo.
Lisandro Martinez
With United overloading the right flank, Martinez played a dual role, stepping up to support attacks from the left. He was solid defensively, thwarting several City advances, but what made him stand out was his willingness to contribute offensively. Martinez delivered a handful of precise crosses and helped circulate the ball efficiently to keep United’s attacks flowing.
His adaptability to take on attacking responsibilities while excelling in his primary defensive role was crucial to United's game plan.
Honorable mentions:
Mason Mount: Unfortunately, Mount’s outing lasted only 14 minutes before he was forced off with an apparent non-contact injury. While he didn’t have enough time to make an impact, such injuries can often lead to lengthy recoveries. Wishing him a swift return.
Player ratings
- Amad Diallo: 10
- Antony: 6
- Diogo Dalot: 6
- Joshua Zirkzee: 5
- Lenny Yoro: 6
- Matthijs de Ligt: 7
- Victor Lindelöf: N/A (insufficient time)
- Andre Onana: 6
- Harry Maguire: 7
- Noussair Mazraoui: 7
- Lisandro Martinez: 8
- Mason Mount: N/A (injury)
- Kobbie Mainoo: 8
- Manuel Ugarte: 7
- Bruno Fernandes: 8
- Rasmus Højlund: 6
