Amad Diallo Shines as Manchester United Secure First Europa League Win

Manchester United finally broke their Europa League stalemate with a 2-0 victory over Greek champions PAOK Salonika at Old Trafford. The Red Devils had struggled to find form in Europe this season, drawing their first three group stage matches, but a second-half resurgence led by Amad Diallo ensured they claimed all three points.

The visitors started brightly, with Camara testing André Onana in United’s goal. The first half saw an underwhelming performance from the hosts, who managed just four shots, none of which troubled PAOK's defense. However, a reinvigorated United side emerged after the break under interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Just five minutes into the second half, Amad Diallo opened the scoring with a composed finish. The 22-year-old winger doubled his tally later in the game with a spectacular strike, securing his first-ever brace for Manchester United. Diallo has now scored five of his six goals for the club at Old Trafford, cementing his status as a rising star.

United dominated the second period, registering 12 shots and restricting PAOK to just three attempts with a modest xG of 0.63. The hosts finished with an xG of 1.17, reflecting their attacking improvement in the latter stages.

This win extends Manchester United’s impressive home record in the Europa League, having lost just one of their last 26 games at Old Trafford (W19 D6). Only Roma (22) have recorded more home wins in the competition during this period.

PAOK, on the other hand, remains winless in the group stage with just one point from four matches, mirroring their disappointing start in the 2015-16 campaign.

Manchester United will now prepare for their next Premier League fixture against Leicester City, which will mark Van Nistelrooy’s final game in charge before Ruben Amorim takes the reins. Meanwhile, PAOK faces a domestic clash with Olympiacos as they seek to turn their fortunes around.

This victory provides a much-needed boost for United’s Europa League hopes as they look to build momentum under new leadership.