Diogo Dalot’s Optimism on Manchester United’s Future
Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has expressed unwavering confidence in the club’s ability to clinch a Premier League title under the guidance of manager Ruben Amorim. Amorim, who took the reins from Erik ten Hag late last year, has experienced a mixed tenure, marked by both triumphant victories and humbling defeats. Wins against top teams like Arsenal and Manchester City have been interspersed with losses to mid-table clubs such as Brighton and Crystal Palace. Despite these challenges, Dalot remains resolutely optimistic, emphasizing the potential for significant success under Amorim’s leadership.
A Candid Assessment of the Manager’s Vision
In a candid conversation with the Local Supporters’ Club, Dalot acknowledged the club’s deep-seated ambition and the fans’ thirst for success. He stated, "If you want me to be completely honest, with this manager, I think we can win a Premier League. I think realistically we can win. But then it becomes the most difficult thing to hear as a fan: that it will take time." Dalot understands the frustration of the fans and the club’s history of winning major trophies. He recognizes that while smaller trophies are important, the club’s legacy is built on big achievements. Dalot believes that Amorim’s managerial style, combined with the players’ adaptation to his system, can lead to significant success, although it will require patience and time.
The Challenges of Transition and Adaptation
Dalot provided insight into the current transitional phase at the club, highlighting the ongoing changes and the challenges they present. "Sometimes when you are going that way, you have a lot of things that you need to change, and there’s a lot of change going on at the club, and it’s always difficult at this point where you want to change things but, at the same time, you need to win games," he said. The defender admitted that the process has been tough, with the team attempting to implement new strategies while maintaining competitive form. He stressed that despite the difficulties, the players are striving to improve and achieve the manager’s vision, but consistency is a key area they need to address.
Personal Journey and Determination
Reflecting on his journey at Manchester United, Dalot shared that his proudest moment has been his fight to regain a place in the team. Since his transfer from Porto in 2018, he has encountered challenges, including a loan spell at AC Milan. Dalot emphasized that his dedication and hard work have been his driving forces. "Now, listen, people might like my football or not, but they cannot say that I don’t give everything for the club. That I don’t go to the pitch and I don’t feel what this club is about. That is the thing that I always try to pass from myself and from my team-mates and for the fans," he stated. His personal growth and commitment to the team are sources of pride, and he remains determined to contribute to the club’s success.
The Importance of Home Ground Advantage
Dalot also addressed the team’s poor home form, particularly in the Premier League, and the need to energize the Old Trafford atmosphere. "Before I was a football player, I was a supporter as well. So I would go to watch Porto games, and if the team was not winning, I was not completely happy and ‘buzzing’ – just to use an expression from here! I was not buzzing about it. I would still go to support, but I was not top and positive about it," he shared. The defender emphasized that it is the players’ responsibility to give more energy to the stadium and demonstrate their commitment on the pitch. He believes that by showing consistent effort and performance, they can inspire the fans and turn Old Trafford into a formidable home.
A Commitment to Success
Dalot concluded by vowing that he and his teammates will do everything in their power to make Old Trafford a fortress once again. "We need to show that you need to support us because we are doing enough to win games, and that is the cycle that we want to put in, especially at home," he said. The defender’s optimism and determination reflect a collective ambition within the squad to achieve the club’s lofty goals. With Ruben Amorim at the helm and the unwavering support of the fans, Manchester United is poised to reclaim its position at the top of English football.
