Nahuel Molina: United target unlikely to leave Atletico Madrid in January | OneFootball

Amad Diallo switched to the right-sided wing-back role since the arrival of Ruben Amorim at Manchester United in November last year.

A year later, the Ivorian has become one of the Portuguese head coach’s most trusted associates. However, there is very little cover in the position at the moment, with Diogo Dalot dividing opinion among fans and critics alike.

Since Amorim’s system relies heavily on marauding full-backs with an ability to have an impact at both ends of the pitch, the situation has prompted talk of possible reinforcements in January.

A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person has stated that the Premier League giants have identified Atletico Madrid right-back Nahuel Molina as an option for the job.

A specialist for the position

Molina joined Los Rojiblancos from Udinese in the summer of 2022 and was a key part of the Argentina team that won the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later that year. The 27 year old is a highly experienced campaigner and is good with the ball at his feet, making him a good fit for Amorim’s system.

Molina has dropped down the pecking order under Diego Simeone this season, making 17 appearances across all competitions, only eight of which have been starts.

Nahuel Molina Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

The situation has alerted his suitors, with United joined by their bitter rivals Manchester City in the race. It was previously believed that the player would be available at the turn of the year, but a conflicting update has now emerged.

Atletico not planning to offload Molina

According to journalist Matteo Moretto, Atletico Madrid are pleased with the player’s contribution so far and consider him a key part of their plans. As such, they will not entertain any talk of an exit in January.

Molina was particularly impressive against Inter Milan in the Champions League in November, helping his team secure a 2-1 win. He also made his mark against Barcelona earlier this month, picking up an assist in the disappointing 3-1 defeat.

As such, Los Rojiblancos have no desire to let him go midway through the season, and believe he still has an important role to play under Simeone this season.

The update will come as a big blow to United’s plans and INEOS will have to consider alternative targets for the position. Meanwhile, the Argentine will enter the final year of his contract next summer, so the Premier League giants could return for him at the end of the season.

Final Thoughts

Given the importance of full-backs in Amorim’s system, it is vital that United reinforce the position in 2026, either in January or in the summer. The Red Devils need to add more cover for Amad in order to compete at the highest level.

A new specialist right wing-back could also add another dimension to Amorim’s formation and enable the Portuguese head coach to tweak his tactics to suit the opposition.

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social