Ian Wright has already admitted he’s ‘frightened to death’ by impactful Man United star ahead of Emirates clash

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·19 January 2026

Ian Wright has already admitted he’s ‘frightened to death’ by impactful Man United star ahead of Emirates clash

Arsenal legend Ian Wright is wary of the impact Amad Diallo could have when Arsenal host Manchester United this weekend.

The league leaders welcome the Red Devils to the Emirates on the back of two goalless draws, whereas United will be looking to build on their momentum from Saturday’s emphatic Manchester derby win by denting Arsenal’s title hopes on Sunday afternoon.

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Amad Diallo returns from AFCON to be restored to United XI

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In his first game in the dugout, Michael Carrick instantly recalled his African Cup of Nations returnees, Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo, to the starting XI, with Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha sacrificed in attack.

Given how remarkably the pair fared, you’d imagine they’ll retain their places once again in North London – and Amad’s inclusion would worry Wright.

Speaking after the same fixture at Arsenal’s ground last season, which saw the Gunners win 2-0, Wright said of United’s No.16 (via The Overlap): “That guy [Amad] frightens me to death!”

Gary Neville chimed in: “Amad has been the best player at Man United for the last few weeks. He has been outstanding.”

How Amad has fared as of late

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

The winger’s eye-catching form continued during his AFCON duties with the Ivory Coast, as he returned three goals and an assist in the four starts he made.

At club level, he has scored twice and assisted three goals in 16 Premier League appearances, although he could’ve had another goal to his name had his contribution not been chalked off by VAR against Manchester City.

He was causing all kinds of problems for Pep Guardiola’s men throughout the affair, too. As per Fotmob, Amad had five touches in the opposition’s box, dispatched two accurate long balls, completed one successful dribble and made one pass into the final third.