A Roma scout reveals why he left the stadium just five minutes into watching Amad Diallo play.
The president of Amad Diallo’s first club has shared why a scout left after just five minutes of watching the Ivorian in action.
Amad, 22, has flourished under Ruben Amorim since the Portuguese coach took charge of Manchester United in November. His performance against Manchester City last Sunday caught attention as he played a key role in both United goals — winning a late penalty and scoring an inventive second to secure a 2-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Currently riding a wave of confidence, Amad’s talent was evident early on, according to Enzo Guerri, president of Boca Barco, his first club in Italy. Speaking to Tutto Mercato in 2021, Guerri fondly recalled Amad’s time at the club, where he trained between 2014 and 2015 as a 12- to 13-year-old.
“[Amad] already stood out back then,” Guerri said. “He had something special compared to the others.”
Guerri then recounted a memorable incident involving a Roma scout who attended one of Amad’s matches.
“I remember the scout watching a game where Diallo made an incredible chest control in the fifth minute,” Guerri explained. “He immediately turned his back to the pitch and walked away. When I asked why, he said, ‘Only future champions do things like that at 12. Watching this game further is pointless—bring him to Rome to train with us.’”
Atalanta, however, gave Amad the chance to compete with older players from the outset, recognizing his potential. After joining the Bergamo-based club in 2015, he quickly rose through their ranks, making his first-team debut in October 2019.
In January 2021, Amad signed for Manchester United. After loan spells at Rangers and Sunderland, he has finally hit his stride, much to the satisfaction of Amorim and United fans.
Amad’s current contract with United runs until June 2025, with an option to extend for another year. Reports suggest extending his deal is a top priority for the club, as failure to do so would allow him to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign teams start
ing January 1.
