Exclusive: Cote d’Ivoire Manager Confident Amad Diallo Can Join African Premier League Legends

Cote d’Ivoire coach Emerse Fae has hailed Amad Diallo as a “massive asset” for Manchester United, citing the winger’s current form.

The 22-year-old has impressed at Old Trafford this season with standout performances, establishing himself as a key figure in Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils.

His stunning 12-minute hat-trick in United’s 3-1 win over Southampton made him the club’s second-youngest Premier League hat-trick scorer, behind Wayne Rooney, at 22 years and 189 days. Notably, it was also United’s first league hat-trick since Cristiano Ronaldo’s treble against Norwich City in April 2022.

DIALLO A MAJOR ASSET FOR UNITED

Following his standout performances that have exceeded expectations, his national team coach believes Diallo is vital to Manchester United’s success this season.

More importantly, he hopes the former Atalanta player can bring his current form to the reigning African champions' squad as they face Burundi and Gambia in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.

"I'm delighted with his performances at Manchester United. There's no doubt that Amad is a fantastic player, and he’s still very young," Fae told SportsBoom.com. 

"He can dribble, score, and offers versatility in the game, making him a valuable asset to his Premier League side and crucial to their success this season.”

"It brings me great joy to see him in such good form right now. He’s playing exceptionally well and is in a positive mood.”

"I hope he can maintain this level of performance leading up to Cote d’Ivoire's World Cup qualifiers in March.”

NEW CONTRACT WON’T ADD PRESSURE ON AMAD

The reigning African Coach of the Year also rejected claims that Diallo’s new contract at Manchester United could put added pressure on him.

The winger signed a new contract with the Red Devils, committing to a deal that runs until June 2030 as a reward for his impressive performances.

Fae believes the development should act as a source of motivation for the youngster, rather than a distraction.

The former Reading star added: "It all depends on him. I’ve congratulated him, and now we hope he can translate the new contract into even more impressive performances.”

"I don’t think the new contract should be a distraction for him. Instead, it should serve as a major boost, motivating him to do even more for the team.”

"We [all Ivorians] are happy for him and his well-deserved contract. We just hope he continues working hard, as that is the most important thing."

HOW AMAD CAN JOIN THE RANKS OF IVORIAN EPL GREATS

Cote d'Ivoire has produced many great players who made a big impact in the Premier League. Some of these include Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, the Toure brothers (Yaya and Kolo), Gervinho, and Salomon Kalou.

Fae isn’t ruling out Amad joining the ranks of Ivorian English topflight legends and has shared insights on what he can do to make this a reality.

"This is the goal. Amad needs to keep working hard to remain at the top. He has the potential to achieve the same success as Drogba, Kalou, Yaya Toure, and Kolo Toure," he stated.

"However, he must put in the effort because only through hard work can he have a career like theirs. He has the ability, but it all comes down to his dedication and determination.”

"When he joins the Cote d'Ivoire national team, he must go one step further, raise his level, and continue to impress.”

"We hope to support him in every way to help him reach those heights and follow in the footsteps of those legendary players."

Amad is Manchester United’s top scorer in the Premier League this season with six goals, followed by Portugal international Bruno Fernandes in second place with just five goals.

He will be hoping to increase his goal tally when Amorim’s men host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford in their next league fixture.