Diogo Dalot is convinced that Ruben Amorim is exactly what Manchester United require, highlighting the new head coach's clear communication and unyielding demands. Amorim's debut match was the 1-1 draw against Ipswich on Sunday. Had Erik ten Hag remained in charge, the post-match analysis would have been intense due to the performance level and the circumstances. Ipswich are struggling in the relegation zone and haven't won a home Premier League game since April 2002. Instead, there were mostly shrugs, a recognition that United have declined significantly, and an understanding that adapting to Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation will take time. Amorim delivered harsh truths without fear of retort, notably stating that United will have to endure a long period of hardship before seeing improvement. It was a day where United had to search for positives, though there was a hint of Amorim's attacking intent. When Amad Diallo advanced up the right in the second minute, he had three options in the box for his cross. Marcus Rashford made the near-post run, but Alejandro Garnacho and Dalot, having sprinted up from left wing-back, were behind him. Diallo found Rashford for the opening goal. Dalot emphasized what Amorim had instilled during their brief preparations, due to many players being away on international duty. "It's gone really well," Dalot said. "He made an immediate impact with his philosophy and how he wants us to play. It aligns with the club's standards—high-intensity football and hard work for the team. We must credit him and his staff for the clear information they provided. Now, we need more training sessions and games to implement this fully. He's very demanding, exactly what we need for a club of this stature. That's the standard the club should uphold, demanding professionalism and hard work. That's the clear message he conveys daily." Amorim's reputation is strong, and the United traveling support rallied behind him from the start, chanting his name to the tune of 'Give It Up' by KC & The Sunshine Band. What frustrated Amorim was how his team lost control after Rashford's goal. The buildup play from the back became stagnant, lacking fluidity. United relied heavily on goalkeeper André Onana for three crucial saves. "The message he [Amorim] gave to everyone was clear—he wants us to have more control of the games," Dalot said. "And that's what we aim to do. For me [as the left wing-back], it was: 'Sprint back and work hard. Provide an option and don't be afraid to have the ball.' I felt comfortable. I've played on the left a few times now, and the system suits this club. I've played with three center-backs before."
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