As Manchester United gear up for a blockbuster clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium this weekend, September 13, 2025, manager Ruben Amorim faces a pivotal decision about winger Amad Diallo. The Ivorian star, who stole the show in last season’s dramatic 2-1 derby win, is at a crossroads, with his role under scrutiny. With United desperate to kickstart their season, the question looms: will Amorim unleash Amad in his natural attacking position, or keep him in an unfamiliar wing-back role, risking a muted performance in one of the Premier League’s fiercest rivalries?

United’s recent 3-2 victory over Burnley, sealed by a stoppage-time Bruno Fernandes penalty, offered a glimmer of hope after a turbulent start. Yet, the chaotic nature of that win against a relegation-threatened side left fans unconvinced. Facing a faltering Manchester City, who sit below United in the table after losing two of their opening three matches, presents a golden opportunity for a statement win. Last season, Amad’s last-gasp heroics at the Etihad—winning a penalty and scoring the winner—proved United could upset their rivals. Can he deliver again, or will Amorim’s tactics clip his wings?

The dilemma centers on Amad’s position. The 23-year-old thrived as a No. 10 last season, his pace and flair dismantling defenses, as seen in his 90th-minute strike against City. However, the summer arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have pushed him to right wing-back, a role that curbs his attacking instincts. Fans on social media are vocal, with one X post stating, “Amad at wing-back is like caging a lion!” Another TikTok user quipped, “Why sign two No. 10s when Amad’s already a star?” The debate raises a deeper question: did United’s transfer strategy misfire, sidelining a proven talent?

Amorim’s decision is fraught with risk. Playing Amad at wing-back ensures defensive solidity but dulls his creative edge, potentially handing City’s wingers, like Jeremy Doku, an advantage. Reverting him to an attacking role could unlock United’s offense but expose their backline, already shaky with injuries to Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro. Stats from last season highlight Amad’s impact: 1.7 possessions won per 90 minutes in the final third, the best in the Premier League, per Opta. Fans wonder: can Amorim afford to bench his flair in a match where a single moment could define the season?

Social media is buzzing with anticipation. A viral Instagram reel compared Amad’s City goal to his lackluster wing-back cameos, captioned, “Free Amad!” Another fan tweeted, “Amorim’s got to let Diallo cook, or we’re toast!” The chatter reflects United’s broader struggles—15th in the league after a 4-3 loss to Brentford—making the derby a must-win. City’s own woes, with just one victory in their last 11 matches, offer hope, but their attacking firepower remains a threat. Will Amad be the difference, or a bystander?

The transfer conundrum adds fuel to the fire. United’s £80 million spent on Mbeumo and Cunha, both attacking midfielders, has crowded the No. 10 spot alongside Fernandes and Mason Mount, leaving Amad out of position. Critics argue the funds could have bolstered the midfield, where Casemiro’s form has dipped. “Amad’s being wasted,” one Reddit user lamented, while another countered, “Amorim’s building depth—give it time!” The debate underscores the stakes: a misstep in the derby could deepen United’s crisis.

As kickoff approaches, all eyes are on Amorim’s lineup. Will he trust Amad to reignite the magic of last season’s derby, or stick with a cautious approach? The decision could shape United’s season and Amad’s future. For now, fans are left speculating, with one X post summing it up: “Amad’s too good for wing-back—unleash him, Ruben!” What’s next for United’s young star in this high-stakes showdown? The Etihad awaits, and so does the answer.