Amad Diallo starred as Manchester United finally secured their first three points of this season's Europa League campaign with a victory over PAOK at Old Trafford.
The win ends United's 380-day wait for a European win and lifts the Red Devils to 15th in the Europa League table, with fixtures against Bodø/Glimt, Viktoria Plzeň, Rangers and FCSB still to play.
After a lacklustre first half from United, Diallo broke the deadlock early in the second half with a brilliant back-post header into the far corner of the net, connecting perfectly with Bruno Fernandes' cross.
The Ivorian doubled United's lead later in the half, unleashing a powerful left-footed strike from the edge of the box that nestled the back of the net.
Here are the key takeaways from the game.
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Amad Diallo grabbed his opportunity
In his first start for United in five weeks, Amad Diallo made an emphatic statement at Old Trafford, seizing his opportunity and standing out as the Reds' clear man of the match.
The 22-year-old showcased his potential, not only through his goals but with his all-around play, combining skill, vision, and tireless work rate. As a result, it would be a surprise if Ruud van Nistelrooy does not give him the nod to start against Leicester City on Sunday.
The winger’s goals ultimately proved decisive after a sluggish first-half performance from United. Diallo took both goals brilliantly - giving United the lead with a precise, looping header at the back post, finishing off a pinpoint cross from Bruno Fernandes.
Later, he doubled United’s lead with a superb left-footed strike from the edge of the box, leaving PAOK keeper Dominik Kotarski with no chance.
Beyond his attacking contributions, Diallo also worked hard out of possession. His energy and commitment to win the ball back, coupled with his disciplined tracking back, added a defensive solidity that complemented his offensive flair.
In a game where United desperately needed a spark, Diallo delivered. His performance not only secured a much-needed win for United, but also highlighted his potential to play a key role as the Red Devils embark on a new chapter under Ruben Amorim.
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United's first-half struggles continue
Manchester United's first-half struggles were evident once again during the game, as they failed to make any significant impact in the opening 45 minutes. Despite enjoying plenty of possession, the Reds struggled to break down PAOK’s defence, lacking the fluidity and sharpness required to create clear-cut chances.
This lacklustre start was a continuation of a worrying trend this season, of failing to assert their dominance during games early on. In 10 out of 16 games this season, United have failed to score in the first 45 minutes of the match.
This ongoing pattern of first-half struggles, followed by second-half revitalisation, raises concerns about United’s consistency, and new boss Ruben Amorim will need to address these lapses if his side are to kick on both in the league and cup competitions this season.
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Rasmus Højlund continues to be isolated upfront
Once again, Rasmus Højlund found himself isolated up front against PAOK - a recurring issue that limits both his impact and United’s attacking potential.
Højlund struggled to make a mark and failed to threaten PAOK’s defence, although arguably through no fault of his own. United’s midfield have failed to provide consistent service for the Dane this season, which continued against the Greek side.
Due to a lack of service throughout the season, the striker has often been forced to drop deep in search of the ball, reducing his effectiveness in the box where he is most dangerous.
Højlund’s isolation is becoming a growing concern, as both his link-up play and finishing ability are being underutilised. For United to get the best out of the 21-year-old they will need to focus on finding him in the box more often, as he has proven both at his former club Atalanta and during his first season at United, he can be clinical in front of goal.
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United were wasteful in possession
Despite the win, United continued to struggle with wastefulness in possession, a flaw that has cost them at times this season.
Throughout the match, United frequently squandered opportunities with misplaced passes and poor decision-making stalling their buildup play. Too often, promising moves broke down in midfield, allowing PAOK to regain possession and counterattack - with respect to the Greek side, against a tougher opponent the Reds would have been punished.
Even when United found themselves in advantageous positions, rushed passes and unnecessary risks prevented them from capitalising effectively and getting shots off on goal. Ruud van Nistelrooy’s men could only muster four shots on target during the game.
Although Diallo’s brilliance ultimately secured the win, United’s inability to use possession efficiently remains a concern, especially as they face tougher challenges ahead. For United to find consistency, they'll need to tighten up their passing and make smarter choices with the ball.
