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Flourishing as Manchester United’s unlikely hero, Diogo Dalot continued his impressive scoring run to inspire the Red Devils into the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League.
DALOT SHINES IN EUROPA LEAGUE TRIUMPH
The Portuguese defender found the net just before half-time at Old Trafford to double United’s lead in the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie against Lyon. His goal, demonstrating his attacking instincts from right-back, made it three in the competition for the season, moving him to within one of talisman Marcus Rashford in the Red Devils’ remarkable run of turnaround wins. Dalot’s growing contribution in the final third was further illustrated by the fact he has now equalled Liverpool star Mohamed Salah’s total of European goals for 2024-25, though the contest, in true United fashion, was anything but routine for Erik ten Hag’s side. They survived a Lyon comeback to eventually progress 7-6 on aggregate thanks to a dramatic late winner from Harry Maguire.
DALOT’S SEASON SO FAR
Dalot’s overall numbers this campaign have further underlined his value to Ten Hag and United. He now has eight goal contributions (goals plus assists) across all competitions and, having been identified by Ten Hag as a right winger at the start of his reign as manager, has become a trusted pillar in defence. Dalot has been a rare bright spot for a United side struggling domestically, finding ways to win matches with late flurries; the club sits well outside the top four in the league having dropped numerous points at home during their torrid campaign.
LOOKING AHEAD: UNITED’S NEXT CHALLENGE
With United now through to the Europa League semi-finals, there remains a glimmer of hope of salvaging a tough season with continental silverware. Ahead of the game, Dalot told TNT Sports how he would “run to Seville” for their next match if they do make it to the final, but United remain distant from any European qualification places in the Premier League after their 1-0 loss to West Ham. Lyon have themselves been inconsistent in Ligue 1 this term, underlining the need for an improvement from both sides of this remarkable contest.
