Amad Diallo Sparks Ballon d'Or Buzz With Shocking Social Media Declaration
Manchester United's Amad Diallo has sparked widespread discussion with a captivating collection of photos shared on social media, including one that seemingly depicts the Ivory Coast star clutching the Ballon d'Or award.
Football's most coveted individual honor might have been on his thoughts. The complete roster of contenders for the sport's top player during the 2024–25 season will be unveiled on Thursday, though few anticipate Amad securing a nomination, much less claiming the prize.
Nevertheless, that's precisely what appears in the final image of an Instagram post shared by Amad to commemorate the end of United's American pre-season campaign.
The dynamic 23-year-old delivered impressive performances for a struggling Manchester United squad, thriving in multiple roles following Ruben Amorim's appointment in November. For the first time in his professional journey, Amad reached double figures in both goals (11) and assists (10) throughout all competitions.
United manager Ruben Amorim has been cautious about heaping excessive praise on his emerging talent. Following Amad's historic achievement as the first Manchester United player since Cristiano Ronaldo to net a Premier League hat-trick with his triple against Southampton in January, the Portuguese tactician acknowledged he was "having a very good season." "However," Amorim quickly cautioned, "you must be mindful with young players.
"My congratulations to him, savor this evening and he should cherish these experiences. Tomorrow I'll remind him he needs to rest and maintain proper nutrition."
Amad couldn't prevent United from suffering a 3–1 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion three days afterward, and within three weeks he had picked up a severe ankle problem. The dedicated youngster exceeded initial medical projections to return before the season's conclusion, celebrating his comeback with a strike against Brentford. Amad concluded the Premier League campaign by netting the opener in a 2–0 triumph over Aston Villa.
The Ballon d'Or isn't the sole lofty aspiration Amad has established for himself. United's versatile wing-back and winger has urged the club to secure a top-five Premier League position following last season's disappointing 15th-place showing. No United squad has improved by 10 positions within a single top-flight season since the 1960s.
Following their drop to 19th in 1962–63, a team led by three Ballon d'Or recipients—Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and an emerging George Best—surged to second place in 1963–64. If Amad can orchestrate a comparable remarkable revival this season, he would merit consideration for the 2026 Ballon d'Or nominees list.