Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant, Rene Meulensteen, has drawn comparisons between Manchester United’s rising star Amad Diallo and club legend Ryan Giggs following Diallo’s stunning performance in the Manchester derby.
The 22-year-old winger was the catalyst for United’s late 2-1 comeback win over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
With City leading 1-0 thanks to Josko Gvardiol’s first-half goal, Diallo turned the game on its head in the final moments.
His fearless drive earned a penalty after a clumsy challenge by Matheus Nunes, allowing Bruno Fernandes to equalise from the spot.
Moments later, Diallo latched onto Lisandro Martinez’s long pass, breezing past City’s defenders and goalkeeper Ederson to score the dramatic winner.
Meulensteen, who worked alongside Ferguson during United’s golden era, praised Diallo’s talent and even compared his playing style to Ryan Giggs.
“Amad Diallo could be a long-term star for Ruben Amorim,” Meulensteen told OLBG. “He’s quick, direct, and brave. He can score, create, and definitely impact the team long-term. The way he picks up the ball and runs reminds me of Ryan Giggs—the balance and control are very similar.”
While noting Diallo’s impressive adaptation to a wing-back role under Amorim, Meulensteen emphasized his discipline and versatility, traits that have made him stand out over other players like Antony.
“He’s adapted well to the wing-back role. Antony plays in a similar position, but he wouldn’t have the discipline. Amad, on the other hand, has taken it in his stride.”
Ryan Giggs, widely regarded as one of United’s greatest ever players, made nearly 1,000 appearances during a trophy-laden career, winning 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues.
Amad Diallo, who joined Manchester United from Atalanta in 2021, showed glimpses of brilliance last season, including a pivotal goal in United’s FA Cup quarter-final win over Liverpool.
Ruben Amorim, United’s new manager, was full of praise but also cautious about placing too much pressure on the young star. “Amad is humble and versatile,” Amorim said. “But we must be careful. At this club, we sometimes elevate young players too quickly. Let’s stay calm with Amad.”
With Diallo continuing to impress under Amorim, comparisons to United legends like Giggs may not be far-fetched, but the focus remains on steady development for one of Old Trafford’s brightest young talents.