Diogo Dalot praises Ruben Amorim’s impact on Manchester United, highlighting the team’s growing unity and fighting spirit. Amorim’s strict standards and recent signings have sparked optimism despite a challenging previous season. Dalot emphasizes the positive change in mentality and the importance of players committing to the club’s goals. Bruno Fernandes’ decision to stay further reinforces the team’s belief in a brighter future.
Diogo Dalot has revealed that under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, Manchester United is evolving into a cohesive unit that prioritizes collective effort, as they gear up for Amorim's first complete season at the helm.
Amorim stepped into the managerial role in November of the previous year. Despite steering the club to the Europa League final, where they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Tottenham, the team also endured their poorest Premier League performance, finishing a lowly 15th.
Under Amorim's stewardship, United managed to win just seven of their 27 Premier League fixtures, averaging a mere 1.0 point per game and a meager 25.9% winning record. However, the acquisition of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, combined with victories over West Ham United and Bournemouth during their pre-season tour in the United States, have sparked optimism ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
Dalot attributes the improved performances during the Premier League Summer Series to a shift in mindset within the squad. "I believe we are cultivating a group that supports each other wholeheartedly," he stated. "That is our primary objective. Of course, there is still a considerable journey ahead.
"However, there are clear indications of the team displaying greater resilience and heightened intensity, which is precisely what we are striving for."
Amorim chose to exclude unsettled players such as Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia from the tour, as all four were reportedly seeking transfers away from Old Trafford. Marcus Rashford was also omitted from the squad and has since been loaned to Barcelona for the season, with an option for the Spanish club to purchase him outright next year.
Since his arrival, Amorim has emphasized that he only wants players who are committed to upholding his standards. Dalot believes this approach will elevate the club's overall performance. "Amorim is very clear in his message that you must be fully committed to the team to remain here," Dalot explained. "If you aspire to be part of Manchester United, you must meet certain standards. Failure to do so means this is not the place for you.
"The message is unambiguous. The fact that we began the preseason together indicates that he believes we are the group that should be here."
Amidst rumors linking Bruno Fernandes with a move to the Saudi Pro League, the midfielder ultimately chose to remain at United, a decision that pleased Dalot. "His decision sends a clear message that he still believes this club can achieve its aspirations," Dalot added. "There is no better way to start a season than with your captain staying and believing in the club's potential.
"His actions serve as an inspiration to his teammates and everyone involved, reinforcing the need to believe. We must work tirelessly to restore Manchester United to its rightful position."