Amad Diallo is “very sad” that Manchester United sacked Ruben Amorim, with whom he had a “father-and-son relationship”.

Amorim was relieved of his duties as United head coach on Monday.

That came after he seemingly criticised the club’s hierarchy following Sunday's 1-1 draw with Leeds United.

Amorim had the worst win ratio (32%), the worst goals conceded per game ratio (1.53) and the lowest clean sheet ratio (15%) of any United boss in Premier League history.

However, one of the standout performers during Amorim's tenure, which started in November 2024, was Amad, who scored nine goals and provided seven assists in 34 Premier League games.

Only Bruno Fernandes contributed more often under Amorim in the competition (13 goals and 15 assists), though Amorim completed the most dribbles in that time (59).

Amad is on international duty with Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations, and preparing to face Egypt in the quarter-finals.

Although he insisted his full focus is on helping Ivory Coast defend their title, Amad found it difficult to deal with the news about Amorim.

“It was a tough topic,” Amad told Stats Perform.

“I was a bit sad because he’s the coach who gave me more visibility and more opportunities to play for Manchester United.

“I was very sad. I even sent him a message to thank him for everything he did for me, both in my life and especially in my career.

“I wished him good luck wherever he goes. It was a difficult moment for me, but I’m really focused on Ivory Coast and on this competition. I want to finish well here and try to win this AFCON.

“We had a very good relationship, almost like a father-and-son relationship. He understood me, gave me a lot of advice, and let me play freely. It’s very unfortunate, but that’s life. You have to adapt, that’s football.

“I wish him all the best in life and in his next club. My next focus is Ivory Coast. I have to give everything for the country.”

Darren Fletcher took charge of United’s Premier League match against Burnley on Wednesday, while he is also one of the names, along with Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who have been tipped for the caretaker role.

The Red Devils are reportedly looking to hire a permanent head coach in the summer, with Gareth Southgate and Oliver Glasner early candidates for the job.