The time is right for Manchester United to cash in on Amad Diallo | OneFootball

There was a painful irony in watching Manchester United winger Amad Diallo trudge around the Stadium of Light on Saturday, anonymous and ineffective against the club that transformed his career.

The Ivorian scored 14 goals during a productive loan spell with Sunderland, winning the hearts of an entire fanbase and establishing himself as one of the country’s most exciting young wingers.

On his return, he was barely noticeable in a drab 0-0 draw, raising fresh questions about his long-term future at Old Trafford.

United were held to their first goalless draw of the season by Sunderland, with their first shot on target not arriving until added time – a Matheus Cunha effort denied by Robin Roefs.

The performance was as toothless as any they have produced this term.

Diallo did little to convince that he deserves to remain part of United’s plans beyond this summer.

He created no chances, completed just one of his three dribbles and lost possession 12 times.

The 23-year-old has also yet to register a goal or assist in 2026 and was equally ineffective off the bench against Liverpool last weekend.

Considering he has managed just two goals and two assists all season – for a player once considered one of United’s most potent attacking threats – the scale of his decline is hard to ignore.

The reasons are well-documented – a disruptive Africa Cup of Nations campaign, loss of confidence and the rise of stronger competition have all played a part.

Key figures in Sunderland’s recruitment department regard Diallo as a dream signing, and United should be ready to negotiate this summer.

Saturday’s visit to the Stadium of Light was a chance for Diallo to recapture his best form. However, it served only as a reminder of how far he has fallen. It is time for United to sell him.