Ivory Coast Counting on Amad Diallo for AFCON 2025

Can Amad Diallo Replicate Manchester United Form With Ivory Coast?

Ivory Coast Head Coach Emerse Faé has revealed his plans to call up Manchester United forward Amad Diallo for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Diallo has been one of the standout Ivorian stars in Europe this season, delivering impressive performances for Manchester United. His contributions—nine goals and seven assists across all competitions—have made him a key player in Erik ten Hag’s squad.

A Redemption Arc for Diallo

The 22-year-old winger missed the 2023 AFCON due to injury, watching from England as Ivory Coast lifted the trophy on home soil. Now, with another tournament on the horizon, he is determined to play a starring role in his country’s title defense.

Speaking after the AFCON 2025 group stage draw, Faé confirmed he has been closely monitoring Diallo’s progress at Old Trafford. The Elephants’ coach is eager to see the young forward maintain his form leading into December.

“Yes, of course. We expect to take all the best players,” Faé told Rant Sports. “Amad Diallo is in good form, he plays very well with good skills, and he scores and provides assists. We need a player like him—this is the kind of player who gives you victory.

“Of course, if he maintains his present good form, we are going to take him and expect of him what he has been doing for Manchester.”

With his national team manager backing him, Diallo now has the chance to shine on the biggest stage in African football—a dream he was forced to put on hold in 2024.

Diallo’s Big Moments for Manchester United

Diallo has proven time and time again that he thrives in big moments. Some of his most memorable goals for Manchester United have come in crucial matches, showcasing his ability to deliver when it matters most.

• March 2021 – UEFA Europa League vs. AC Milan
  • In just his third appearance for United, Diallo scored a stunning back-header against AC Milan in the Europa League Round of 16. That goal helped United secure a vital draw at Old Trafford before they advanced to the next round.
• May 2023 – Sunderland vs. Luton Town (Championship Playoffs)
  • While on loan at Sunderland, Diallo scored a world-class curler in the Championship playoff semi-finalagainst Luton Town. His goal was a moment of brilliance that showcased his technical ability and composure under pressure.
• January 2025 – Manchester Derby Winner
  • In one of the biggest fixtures of the Premier League season, Diallo scored a last-minute winner against Manchester City, securing a 2-1 victory for United at the Etihad. His performance in that match cemented his growing reputation as a clutch player.

With performances like these, it’s no surprise that Ivory Coast sees him as a key asset for their AFCON campaign.

Man United’s Dilemma: Finding Cover for Diallo

Diallo’s potential call-up to AFCON 2025 presents a challenge for Manchester United. Should he be included in Ivory Coast’s squad, he will be absent from club duties from December 21 to January 18, 2026, a period that includes the congested festive fixtures and FA Cup third round.

United manager Rúben Amorim will need to plan for Diallo’s absence by possibly reinforcing the squad in the summer transfer window. With key games in both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, losing a dynamic attacker like Diallo could be a major blow.

Ivory Coast’s Title Defense: The Road Ahead

Ivory Coast enters AFCON 2025 as the defending champions, aiming to secure back-to-back titles for the first time in their history. However, their Group F draw won’t be easy, as they face:

• Cameroon – A historic powerhouse with multiple AFCON titles.
• Gabon – Led by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, they can cause problems for any team.
• Mozambique – The underdogs, but capable of springing surprises.

The Elephants will base their training camp in Marrakech, Morocco, as they prepare to fight for another title. After their dramatic 2024 triumph, where they sacked their coach mid-tournament and still won the trophy, Ivory Coast is eager to prove they are the best team in Africa.

What’s Next for Amad Diallo?

As the 2025 AFCON approaches, all eyes will be on Diallo to see if he continues his fine form at Manchester United. If he does, he will undoubtedly be one of Ivory Coast’s key attacking weapons in Morocco.

For now, Diallo remains focused on helping Manchester United push for silverware. But come December, he could be leading the Elephants in their quest for a historic AFCON title defense.

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