Former players and football icons often provide sharp insight into the modern game, and Thierry Henry has added his voice to the debate surrounding Manchester United’s ongoing struggles.
The legendary ex-Arsenal and Barcelona striker recently offered a candid assessment of United’s attacking problems, shifting the focus away from striker Rasmus Højlund and instead pointing the finger at another member of the squad.
According to Henry, one particular player’s style of play is negatively affecting the efficiency and confidence of the club’s forwards.
Henry suggested that the real issue does not lie with United’s strikers, but rather with the lack of service they receive.
He highlighted young winger Amad Diallo as an example, arguing that the Ivorian’s desire to score goals himself often comes at the expense of supporting teammates in more dangerous positions.
While Diallo continues to receive praise from sections of the fanbase for his flair and ambition, Henry believes this mindset may be disrupting the rhythm and work rate of United’s strikers.
Speaking in a recent interview, Henry emphasized that at the elite level, creating goals is just as important as finishing them.
He explained that forwards rely heavily on intelligent movement and timely passes from wide players and attacking midfielders. Without consistent service, even the most clinical strikers will struggle to make an impact.
In Henry’s view, this is where United have fallen short, particularly when players in creative roles fail to prioritize teamwork over individual glory.
Manchester United, Henry noted, are not short of attacking options. The squad includes experienced names such as Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, alongside younger forwards eager to prove themselves. On paper, the club has enough attacking quality to trouble any defense.
However, Henry believes that the breakdown occurs in the moments leading up to goal-scoring chances, when decisions must be made quickly and selflessly.
Amad Diallo arrived at Old Trafford in January 2021 with a reputation as a highly promising talent following his emergence at Atalanta.
Since then, he has shown glimpses of his ability, dazzling fans with his dribbling, pace, and technical skill. Yet, consistency has remained elusive.
Henry’s criticism centers on Diallo’s decision-making in the final third, suggesting that he often hesitates or chooses to shoot when a pass would be the better option.
According to Henry, this issue is not about diminishing Diallo’s talent, but about helping him understand his responsibility within the team.
He stressed that the greatest players are also those who elevate the performance of others around them.
Football intelligence, he explained, is not only about beating defenders but also about recognizing when to create opportunities for teammates.
Henry also highlighted the importance of communication and chemistry on the pitch. Strikers depend on wingers to read their runs, deliver accurate crosses, and exploit spaces at the right moments.
When that understanding is missing, forwards can become isolated, leading to frustration and a drop in overall effectiveness.
With Manchester United pushing for a top-four finish and aiming to compete for trophies, Henry believes every player must fully commit to the collective cause. For Diallo, this could be a defining moment.
If he embraces a more selfless approach and improves his creative output, he could unlock the full potential of United’s attacking line.
As the season continues, Henry’s comments may serve as a timely reminder that success at the highest level is built on cooperation, awareness, and shared responsibility not just individual brilliance.
