As is often the case with Manchester United, the media, whether social or mainstream, are unable to sit still and soak up periods of positivity in the North West.
Instead, players and coaches are dissected to the point of exhaustion, and progressive performances are disregarded in favour of single statistics.
It’s jaded, but it’s a factor that all first-team players must accept. None is safe, not even the phenomenally talented Amad, whose individual output has become a recent topic of conversation.
Despite playing a pivotal role in his side’s 13-point return inside a month of Premier League football, a contingent of naysayers has started to draw attention to his lack of attacking output.
Two goals and three assists from 21 appearances this season have invited some to suggest he may warrant a place on the bench, disregarding his invaluable buildup role ahead of inevitable returns.
But, at 23, the Ivorian has solidified himself as an integral cog in this squad, displaying an unyielding presence on either end of the field and contributing in both phases of transitions.
Should he, like any other player, receive criticism for abject performances? Yes, of course. That said, have his individual displays warranted such behaviour this season?
The figures suggest an all-action Amad is central to Carrick’s success
On the face of a stellar resurgence under Michael Carrick, Amad is yet to earn an attacking notch since returning from International duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nonetheless, he has played all but two minutes of the previous five fixtures, presenting a formidable outlet on the right flank, one that would not look out of place in any Premier League side.
Plenty have bemoaned the work of Ruben Amorim and his insistence on placing square pegs in round holes while leading the way at Old Trafford.
Still, it is unquestionable that Amad has benefited from his time at wing-back, adding defensive work rate to an arsenal that already consisted of stretching play and a growing partnership with Bryan Mbeumo.
Say what you will about the lack of end product, but the end-to-end dynamic on display is worth its weight in gold.
Premier League Season Heatmap via Sofascore.com
Funnily enough, the winger’s five contributions all came under the watch of his former Portuguese chief, achieving the figure from 15 appearances in an entirely different role than we see today.
While his season conversion of 6% is far below the 17% exhibited throughout the 2024-25 campaign, his 35 shots are a testament to an unwavering attacking intent.
I’m a firm believer that goals will inevitably come through continued focus, and Amad’s mental fortitude is a trait that many attackers lack, particularly when faced with the United agenda.
Furthermore, his footprints throughout various stages of buildup are not noted in final metrics, and his endless running opens pockets of space that are regularly utilised by Mbeumo.
In defence, we are witnessing the growth of a dynamic footballer who routinely offers his services to an ever-welcome backline.
And here is where many of today’s antagonists refuse to see strengths, and would instead choose to harbour nonsensical values.
Whether through an improved physicality and willingness to engage in the rigorous demands of English football, or his sense when conforming to a defensive wall, the 23-year-old has developed numerous strings on an already impressive bow.
| Amad Premier League metrics 2025-26 via Sofascore | Per 90 minutes |
| Ground Duels Won | 5.39 |
| Tackles | 1.63 |
| Clearances | 1.31 |
| Interceptions | 0.54 |
| Aerial Duels Won | 0.49 |
During what has been a short Manchester career to date, Amad has transformed from a dazzling raw talent with breathtaking flair and creativity to an all-round footballer with further room for growth.
His natural ball-carrying and world-class control are unquestionable, with the former Atalanta man ranking in the 94th percentile for successful dribbles, averaging 1.63 per 90 minutes played.
Furthermore, his strengths in the final third scale far beyond limited expectations.
Notably, the forwards key passes rank in the 90th percentile with 1.74 per 90, and his expected assists (xA) nearly double his actual figure (2 – 3.48).
I asked a question at the top of the page regarding whether individual displays warranted growing critique from a subsection of social channels.
Although the answer is not set in stone, and objective debate is the birthright of every supporter, I can’t help but feel that many are missing a trick with this captivating talent.
If this is the byproduct of an underperforming attacker, may god help European football when our number 16 arrives at his peak.
What are your thoughts on the continued growth of Amad and his importance to this Manchester United team?
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2 responses to “The facts and figures behind the tactical metamorphosis of Amad”
One of my favourites and you couldn’t have said it better Shaun. These critics are superficial from most.
There are some who are unable to sit with a quiet spell in Manchester, George.