Amad keen to extend Man Utd stay

Manchester United’s Europa League matchwinner Amad Diallo is keen to extend his stay at the club. His current deal expires in the summer, although United do have an option to extend that contract for an additional year.

The Ivorian said in the summer his aim was to remain at Old Trafford and clearly nothing has changed after his double against Greek champions PAOK gave United their first Europa League win over the season and their first victory in continental competition for 12 months.

"I’m happy to be here, happy to play for this club and yes, I want to stay here for a long time and make history here," Amad said.

Talks have been taking place over an extension with an expectation Amad will sign a new deal that will run to 2027.

His efforts were much needed against PAOK and transformed what interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy described as a disappointing first-half performance into a winning one in the second.

For Amad, it was the perfect way to answer a frustrating month where he has failed to start a game.

"I always do my best, even when I am not starting,” he said. “Everyone wants to play but I just try to stay focused. I was (United) player of the month in August but now I have moved on and am focused on the future."

The impending arrival of Ruben Amorim from Sporting offers Amad a fresh chance to impress, even if United’s new head coach does not tend to use orthodox wide players.

Amad is not on his own in being unclear what role will be demanded of him by Amorim. But he is looking forward to the challenge.

"I am excited to have him in this team and I can’t wait to work with him," he said.