Nearly 12 months ago, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim delivered a stern message to his squad during the Europa League first leg against Real Sociedad: “NO. F***ING. FIGHTING.”
The On-Field Confrontation
Rasmus Hojlund and Diogo Dalot nearly came to blows after Dalot failed to pass to the unmarked striker, who was ideally placed for an easy goal. Amid an 18-match goal drought, Hojlund reacted with frustration, raising his arms and unleashing sharp words at his teammate. Dalot responded in kind, but the situation de-escalated before it worsened.
Post-match, Amorim emphasized unity. “The important thing is to move on and not be fighting,” he stated. “I’m just imagining Diogo didn’t know for sure that Rasmus had the advantage and he felt that he had a lot of time to think of the play. It was a clear position, Rasmus did really well, Dalot did really well, but the decision was not the best.”
Joshua Zirkzee soon gave United the lead in the second half, only for Real Sociedad to equalize from the penalty spot. United advanced convincingly with a 4-1 second-leg win at Old Trafford, where Dalot scored.
Hojlund Thrives on Loan at Napoli
After managing just four Premier League goals in 32 appearances last season, Manchester United invested £74 million in Benjamin Sesko and loaned Hojlund to Napoli for the campaign. The Danish forward has revitalized his form, leading Napoli’s scoring charts with 13 goals across all competitions—ahead of Scott McTominay’s 10.
Hojlund now scores a league goal every 0.4 matches, surpassing his 0.2 rate at Old Trafford. Contractually tied to United until season’s end, his return appears unlikely with Sesko excelling.
Dalot Remains a United Stalwart
Diogo Dalot has solidified his role at Manchester United amid managerial changes. Under Amorim, the Portuguese defender featured reliably as a wing-back on either flank. After Amorim’s January departure, caretaker Michael Carrick continues to trust him, reverting to a back four with Dalot at right-back.
His consistency and tactical smarts shine through. Dalot nears 250 appearances for the club, a testament to his status as a regular starter over five seasons.
