Amad Diallo: Early Life, Migration to Italy, Transfer to Man United & More

Amad’s trajectory from a young talent in Ivory Coast to a key player for Manchester United exemplifies resilience, dedication, and exceptional skill.
Source: Eurosport

Amad Diallo, born on July 11, 2002, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is one of the most exciting young talents in football today. Renowned for his incredible agility, sharp dribbling skills, and creative playmaking, Diallo has quickly ascended from humble beginnings to becoming a key player for Manchester United and an influential figure for the Ivory Coast national team. With a story marked by both triumph and challenge, his journey offers inspiration and insight into the resilience required to succeed at the highest levels of football. This profile delves into Amad’s life, career, and the defining moments that have shaped him into the player he is today.

Early life and migration to Italy

At a young age, Amad relocated to Italy, where he began his football journey. In 2014, he joined the youth ranks of Boca Barco, a local club, and quickly made an impression by becoming the top scorer in a Christmas tournament that year. His performances caught the attention of Atalanta, leading to his enrollment in their youth academy in 2015.

Rise through Atalanta’s youth system

While at Atalanta, Amad showcased exceptional talent, contributing to the team’s victories in two Campionato Primavera 1 titles. His consistent performances earned him a senior team debut on October 27, 2019, against Udinese, where he scored, marking him as the first player born in 2002 to net a Serie A goal.

Transfer to Manchester United

In January 2021, Manchester United secured Amad’s services, recognizing his potential to bolster their attacking options. He made his debut for the club in a UEFA Europa League match against Real Sociedad on February 18, 2021. To gain more first-team experience, Amad had loan spells at Rangers in 2022 and Sunderland during the 2022–2023 season, where he continued to develop his skills.

International career

Amad’s international journey began with his debut for the Ivory Coast national team on March 26, 2021, in an Africa Cup of Nations qualification match against Niger. He scored his first international goal on June 5, 2021, via a 97th-minute free-kick in a friendly against Burkina Faso, securing a 2–1 victory. Additionally, he represented Ivory Coast at the 2020 Summer Olympics, making four appearances and providing an assist in the tournament.

Recent highlights

On January 16, 2025, Amad delivered a standout performance by scoring a hat-trick in Manchester United’s 3–1 comeback victory over Southampton. This feat not only showcased his offensive capabilities but also underscored his importance to the team.

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Personal tributes

Amad’s goal celebration, where he covers his right ear and left eye, is a heartfelt tribute to his late friend, Willy Braciano Ta Bi, who passed away from liver cancer in 2021. This gesture reflects Amad’s deep personal connections and the impact of his friend’s memory on his life.

Challenges and advocacy

Amad’s journey to professional football was not without challenges. Reports indicate that he was trafficked to Italy as a child, highlighting the darker side of football’s recruitment processes. His story brings attention to the issue of football trafficking, where young talents are exploited under false promises, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and protective measures for aspiring players.

Conclusion

Amad’s trajectory from a young talent in Ivory Coast to a key player for Manchester United exemplifies resilience, dedication, and exceptional skill. His contributions on the field continue to inspire many, and his personal story sheds light on important issues within the football community. Amad’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and talent, and it’s clear his brightest moments in football are still to come.

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