Diogo Dalot believes Ruben Amorim is instilling a new mentality at Manchester United as the club looks to bounce back from a historically poor season.
Amorim took over from Erik ten Hag in November last but endured a turbulent first season in charge, leading United to a catastrophic 15th-place finish, their lowest-ever first-division finish since relegation in 1974.
The season ended without silverware, as United fell to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, leaving many fans concerned about the direction of the club.
But ahead of Amorim’s first full season in charge, Dalot believes there has been a big change in the mentality of the squad.
“I think we are creating a group that fights for each other,” the full-back said.
“I think that's what we are trying to create. Obviously, there's still a long way to go.
“I think you can see straight away some signs of the team fighting a bit more, having more intensity, and that's what we are trying to do.”
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United are currently preparing for the upcoming campaign with a preseason tour in the United States, and they have enjoyed their time there, picking up confidence-boosting wins over West Ham and Bournemouth.
Amorim has not historically shied away from taking statement calls, and he did so again prior to the squad’s departure to the States, leaving behind Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia.
All four players are currently exploring moves away from Old Trafford, while Marcus Rashford, who was dropped by Amorim last season, has joined Barcelona on a season-long loan.
So, what's happening at United?
Many United players, such as Luke Shaw and Manuel Ugarte, have come out in support of the manager’s firm stance recently, indicating that the squad is responding well to his push to raise standards.
Dalot hopes that this approach from Amorim will help the squad perform better in the upcoming next season.
“Amorim is very clear on his messages that you want to be a part of the team or you cannot be here,” Dalot added.
“If you want to be in Manchester United, you need to match some standards. If you're not able to match it, it's not a place for you.
“The message is really clear. The message was that if you started the preseason, it's because he believes that we are the group that needs to come.”
United have made two marquee signings so far this summer, signing Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
The club are reportedly also keen to sign RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, though they may face stiff competition from Newcastle United for his signature.
United kickstart their Premier League campaign on August 16 against Arsenal, and with some fresh signings and Amorim’s firm approach, fans may finally have reason to feel optimistic.
Manchester United news and related links
- Mason Mount admits connection with Thomas Tuchel will not guarantee England recall
- Man Utd aiming to win the Premier League this season, says Luke Shaw
- Rasmus Hojlund determined to ‘fight’ for Man Utd spot despite Benjamin Sesko rumours