The Resurgence of Diogo Dalot and What It Means for Manchester United

Can Erik Ten Hag Rely on the fullback in Light of His Recent Performances?

Manchester United’s start to the season has been mixed, with two losses in the first two league games and a few wins thereafter; there are many aspects of the team that need to be addressed. One such position that is of significance is the right-back position.

While United opted for Tyrell Malacia in the left-back position during the summer transfer window, Ten Hag decided to give the Portuguese player a chance to resurrect his career at The Theater of Dreams. He eventually went on to replace Aaron Wan Bissaka and could be in the side for the long haul.

Before getting his Manchester United career off the mark, Diogo Dalot enjoyed a loan spell at AC Milan. He impressed manager Stefano Pioli to the extent that the Italian club wanted his services permanently, however, a deal could not be reached.

Dalot was brought in at Old Trafford under the regime of current Roma Manager Jose Mourinho as a young and attack-minded wing-back. After the departure of Mourinho, the 23-year-old was mostly warming the bench.

Now, under current manager ten Hag, he has started every single one of United’s games in the Premier League this season. He has shown an eye for goal and an attacking instinct that makes him a lethal pairing with either Jadon Sancho or Antony. He has also struck a constructive partnership with Raphael Varane at the back.

With a 73 percent overall passing accuracy in the league and 1.7 key passes per game, he certainly looks the part. Ten Hag’s fluid system has helped him as he can move up the field during attacks and build on his passing range.

The system has also enabled him to sometimes move in midfield to keep attacks going. The Portuguese international has an impressive crossing range, which he looks to exploit at every given opportunity.