Amad Diallo delivered a sensational performance, netting a late hat-trick to save Manchester United from an embarrassing defeat to Southampton at Old Trafford.
Despite recent promising results against Arsenal and Liverpool, United struggled against the league’s bottom side, raising questions about their true progress.
Manager Ruben Amorim had cautioned before the match that facing Southampton would be a clearer test of United’s development. His prediction proved correct as the team found themselves trailing for much of the game.
With eight minutes remaining, Diallo equalized, igniting hope among United fans. In injury time, he capitalized on Cristian Eriksen’s perfectly placed pass to beat Aaron Ramsdale, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Moments later, he sealed the win with another well-taken goal, completing his hat-trick and ensuring three crucial points.
However, Amorim tempered the celebrations, urging restraint in praising the young winger. “The important thing is to win, and he helped us,” he said. “But young players need to stay grounded. He must enjoy tonight but be ready to work tomorrow. We need him again on Sunday.”
Amorim also acknowledged his share of the blame for United’s inconsistent performance, with the team still languishing in 12th place. He attributed their struggles to physical and mental fatigue after recent intense games.
“Playing at home is different; the pressure is higher. We need to recover faster and manage the ball better. Right now, the players are tired in body and mind,” Amorim admitted.
United’s ability to rise against stronger opponents contrasts sharply with their struggles against weaker teams. Even part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, present at Old Trafford, likely left unimpressed despite the result.
Amorim acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, adding, “The fans deserve better football. We need time to improve, and winning buys us that time.”
Meanwhile, Southampton manager Ivan Juric lamented his team’s inability to close out the game despite dominating for 75 minutes.
“We played well but lacked the ruthlessness to manage the final moments,” Juric said. “Losing like this is a real shame.”
Although United managed to secure the win, their inconsistency remains a significant concern. For Amorim’s side, the road to stability and success is far from complete.