Aheed Abrar
Erik ten Hag feels competition between Manchester United duo Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka “really close”
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag feels the competition between the Red Devils’ duo Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka is “really close”.
In recent weeks, the two have shared minutes at the right-back spot. The Portugal international’s slump in form has resulted in the English national getting more opportunities in the starting lineup.
Speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag has admitted that both players have their own strengths. As a result, the gaffer is torn between the former FC Porto and Crystal Palace stars.
“I think it’s really close competition between them. So maybe Aaron gives you a little bit more defending, Diogo a little but more offence. They both made progress in both areas, so it’s really close.”
Dalot made his way to United in the summer of 2018. Subsequently, the Portuguese mostly played a bit-part role at the Old Trafford side for many years. In the 2020/21 season, the 23-year-old also joined AC Milan on loan.
On the other hand, Wan-Bissaka was bought in the summer of 2019 and immediately became the first choice. The 25-year-old had Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s faith. But with the Norwegian’s departure, the English national lost his place in the starting lineup.
Ralf Rangnick gave Dalot an opportunity in the team. Soon, the former Porto star became the undisputed starter. With the arrival of Erik ten Hag, the Portugues retained his place in the team.
Before the 2022 World Cup, the 23-year-old started in all but one game for United. However, after the tournament in Qatar, his performances have dipped a bit.
As a result, Wan-Bissaka has retained a place in the Dutch manager’s plans with some solid displays. The 25-year-old’s stock has risen in the past few weeks.
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Ten Hag has a big dilemma on his hand regarding the right-back area. However, it is always a good thing to have two players to count on for one position.
