- Sunderland set to host Manchester United this Saturday
- Amad Diallo reflects on his loan spell at the Stadium of Light
- Ivorian forward describes then-manager Tony Mowbray as “like a dad” during his time on Wearside
Amad Diallo is set to return to the Stadium of Light for the first time this Saturday as Sunderland host Manchester United.
The Ivorian joined Manchester United from Atalanta in 2021, arriving for a reported fee of around £37m and as one of the brightest young attackers in world football.
The 23-year-old has since established himself as a first-team regular at Manchester United.
However, he had to bide his time earlier in his career, spending a series of loan spells away from the club to gain valuable experience and playing time.
Diallo spent the second half of the 2021/22 campaign on loan at Rangers, before making the move to Sunderland for the following season, continuing his development.
Amad Diallo heaps praise on Sunderland
The 2022/23 campaign marked Sunderland ’s first season back in the Championship after four years in League One.
Diallo playing an integral role in a strong return as the Black Cats finished sixth before being beaten by eventual promotion winners Luton Town in the play-off semi-finals.
Diallo proved a constant threat to opposition defenders throughout the campaign, finishing the season with an impressive return of 14 goals and four assists.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Ivorian reflected on his time at Sunderland and was full of praise, he said: “I really enjoyed my time at Sunderland.
“I have nothing bad to say about the club, only positive things. I’m now one of their biggest fans, I watch every game whenever they play, so I’m really happy with what they’ve achieved this season.”
Tony Mowbray’s influence
Diallo was particularly effusive on then-manager Tony Mowbray, who he claims played a massive part in his success that season.
Diallo said: “Tony Mowbray was like a dad to me. We had a really good relationship and he was always there to help me. He gave me the keys.”
It was under Mowbray’s management that Diallo enjoyed his first real breakthrough in English football.
The Ivorian went on to win the EFL Young Player of the Month award after scoring three goals in five games in December.
Mowbray’s shares Diallo’s sentiment
Following Diallo’s comments, Sky Sports surprised the Manchester United winger with a video message from Tony Mowbray, who also spoke highly of the Ivorian.
Mowbray said: “On my first day at Sunderland I could already see your talent and what you could do with the ball, and you’ve carried that through your career.
“I wish you all the best, mate. Keep going, keep doing what you’re doing, and keep enjoying your football, which I know you do.”
Diallo then responded with a short but poignant comment: “You’re going to make me cry.”
