Manchester United's recent trip to the Stadium of Light ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Sunderland, a result that felt more like a fortunate escape than a hard-earned point. The flat performance marked the team's first goalless stalemate of the season, with goalkeeper Senne Lammens emerging as the unlikely hero to keep the visitors in the game.
Caretaker manager Michael Carrick opted for a heavily rotated lineup, giving rare starts to fringe players like Mason Mount and Joshua Zirkzee. Unfortunately, neither seized the opportunity to impress, raising questions about squad depth as INEOS looks to build a team capable of competing on all fronts. If the club is serious about challenging for honors, tough decisions will be needed come summer.
However, the most pressing concern is the alarming dip in form of Amad Diallo. Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, the Ivorian winger has struggled to recapture the spark that made him a fan favorite earlier this season. Under former boss Ruben Amorim, Amad thrived in a wing-back role, contributing three assists and two goals. But under Carrick's current system, he looks a shadow of that player.
Saturday's match against Sunderland—a club where Amad enjoyed a successful loan spell—seemed like the perfect stage for a resurgence. Yet, in 75 minutes on the pitch, the 23-year-old failed to create a single chance, registered no shots on target, and completed only one of his attempted crosses. Known for his dribbling prowess, he managed just one successful take-on and won only four of nine duels. Defensively, he was equally ineffective, with zero tackles or interceptions.
It wasn't long ago that fans were clamoring for Amad to get more minutes under former manager Erik ten Hag. Now, with the 3-4-3 system abandoned and his confidence visibly shaken, INEOS faces a critical decision. The club is already eyeing a left winger for the summer transfer window, but perhaps it's time to consider reinforcements on the right flank as well. For a team aiming to climb back to the top, every position must be addressed with ruthless efficiency.