Pep Guardiola has reportedly sent shockwaves through the football world after expressing a strong desire for Manchester City to sign Manchester United’s exciting young winger, Amad Diallo.
The City manager was said to be absolutely captivated by the 22-year-old’s dazzling performance in United’s thrilling 2–1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield — a display that, according to close insiders, left Guardiola “speechless.”
Sources close to the City boss revealed that Guardiola could not stop praising Amad after the match, describing his performance as one of the most mature, fearless, and tactically intelligent outings he has ever seen from such a young winger.
In fact, he reportedly told his coaching team, “Get him for me at all costs this January. If we’re going to surpass Arsenal, I need him in my squad.”
Those comments allegedly created an immediate stir inside the Etihad hierarchy, with many within the club believing Guardiola truly sees Amad as an ideal addition to his system.
Known for his admiration of versatile and technically sharp players, Guardiola views the Ivorian as the type of creative, disciplined wide forward who could excel across multiple attacking roles.
Some within City even suggested the performance reminded Guardiola of his former Barcelona protégé, Pedro — a player he once molded into a key part of his title-winning side.
During that memorable night at Anfield, Amad dominated the right flank with blistering pace, clever dribbling, and composure beyond his years. Liverpool’s defenders found it nearly impossible to contain his direct runs and quick feet.
His sharp decisions in the final third, combined with relentless work rate, earned him standing ovations from United fans and grudging respect from neutrals. Guardiola reportedly described Amad as playing “with rhythm, bravery, and intelligence” — qualities he believes define the modern winger in his tactical setup.
Following the game, Guardiola is said to have immediately contacted City’s sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, urging him to explore the possibility of bringing Amad to the Etihad in the January transfer window. However, Manchester United are expected to reject any such advances.
Manager Rúben Amorim has publicly labeled Amad a cornerstone of his project, calling him “one of Europe’s most promising attacking stars.” Club insiders have also stressed that the Ivorian talent is “not for sale under any circumstances.”
Despite that firm stance, reports suggest City might still tempt United with a mammoth £70 million bid — one of the largest ever proposed for a young Premier League player.
Guardiola’s determination reportedly stems less from financial ambition and more from tactical admiration; he views Amad as a perfect blend of flair, intelligence, and discipline — reminiscent of players like Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden, both key figures in his dynamic system.
Reactions across social media have been electric. United fans have passionately urged the club to resist any offer, insisting Amad represents the future of their attack.
City supporters, on the other hand, are already picturing him in sky blue, convinced that “if Pep wants him, he must be special.”
Pundits have also weighed in with Rio Ferdinand noting that Guardiola rarely singles out opposition players for praise, emphasizing just how special Amad’s performance must have been.
For now, United remain firm — Amad Diallo is untouchable. But Guardiola’s admiration has added yet another chapter to the fierce rivalry between Manchester’s two powerhouses. What was once a battle on the pitch has now spilled into the transfer market.
One thing is certain: Amad Diallo’s stunning performance at Anfield didn’t just help Manchester United earn three vital points it earned him recognition from one of the greatest minds in modern football.
His rise to global stardom has officially begun, and the entire football world is watching closely.
