Transfers
Diallo sends clear message to Carrick ahead of Season opener
Amid the build‑up to the 2026/27 Premier League opener, Amad Diallo has sent a clear message to manager Michael Carrick, signalling his intent to fight for a starting place at Old Trafford.
Reuters/Jason Cairnduff By  Lee Wilmot Published Aug 13, 2026, 1:15 PM GMT+1. The story originates from a Reuters News release and carries the byline of senior journalist Jason Cairnduff.
Lee Wilmot is a Senior Editor and Content Strategist at GiveMeSport, with more than 20 years' experience in the media industry, previously working on the . He graduated from Southampton Solent University in 2005 with a journalism degree before starting out as a news reporter on his local paper in Kent.
Carrick’s Permanent Role and United’s Recent Success
Michael Carrick was installed as the permanent manager at Old Trafford after an impressive caretaker spell that saw him replace the sacked Ruben Amorim. He guided United to third place in the table and secured qualification for this season’s UEFA Champions League, posting the best record of any team in the calendar year of 2026, edging champions Arsenal by one point.
Heading into the new campaign, expectations are high as Carrick will now manage his squad through both domestic and European commitments.
United face a talent vacuum as JJ Gabriel seeks European exit
Rashford’s Return Adds a New Variable
Marcus Rashford is back in training after a loan to Barcelona fell through and following England’s run to the semi‑finals of the World Cup. Carrick is keen to integrate Rashford, a move that could affect Diallo’s playing time.
Diallo will have to compete with Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko for a place in the frontline, and the addition of Rashford makes the battle even tougher.
Diallo’s Role Under Carrick and Early Season Form
Diallo featured in 17 games under Carrick last season, recording a single assist on the final day against Brighton. Carrick has called him a "big fan", praising his "so much talent" and "fantastic attitude".
The Ivorian started each of United’s last three pre‑season friendlies against Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint‑Germain and Leeds United, earning a seven‑out‑of‑ten rating from the Manchester Evening News – "Quicksilver feet on a couple of occasions and could have scored after good work from Zirkzee. Has made an impact since his return from the World Cup" – and a similar score from the Sun – "Has got better with each of his three starts. Nearly matched Bryan Mbeumo for directness as he gave Leeds youngster Rhys Chadwick a grilling. Seems well‑placed to start the season".
Joshua Zirkzee, linked with an exit, scored in the 1‑1 draw with Leeds that United eventually won 5‑4 on penalties, but Diallo’s performances suggest he should be challenging for a regular starting spot.
Manchester United are expected to seek transfer reinforcements in the forward department this summer.