‘I’ve been enjoying’ – Manchester United star happy with new role under Erik ten Hag



Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot is the epitome of a modern full-back.

The Portugal international has become one of the first names on the team sheet at United in the past two seasons, and was voted the Players’ Player of the Year for his improved performances last term.

During that time we’ve watched Dalot transition into a modern full-back. The responsibilities include defending, switching into midfield when we’ve got possession and bold forays forward.

The requirement to get up and down the pitch means it is a key position under Erik ten Hag, who has helped Dalot’s development tenfold.

When asked about his new role by club media, Dalot told ManUtd.com: “It brought me something different. A little bit of a different perspective on the pitch. As you know, and everybody who likes football knows, the game in midfield is a lot quicker than when you’re in the wide areas of the pitch. You always have someone close, you always have someone pressing you, so that makes me think a little bit faster. And it’s something that I’ve been enjoying doing; something that we found as a solution to our way of play. So as long as things are going well, as long as the manager keeps that trust, I will be open to do it.”

Diogo Dalot to face Fenerbahce at left-back

Diogo Dalot clears the ball during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on September 29, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Dalot is back in action on Thursday night when he is expected to start against Fenerbahce in the Europa League, amid links to Real Madrid. He is likely to return to left-back after getting a run out in his preferred right-back role on Saturday against Brentford.

The right-back role is usually occupied by new signing Noussair Mazraroui, although there won’t be any complaints from Dalot as he is still playing every game.