“The first thing to do is drop him immediately and rethink his place in the squad. He’s been underwhelming for far too long” – This is according to Rio Ferdinand as Ruben Amorim is under pressure to sideline a Manchester United player rated just 5/10 against Everton, who recently faced criticism from the manager.

Is it too soon to claim Manchester United are back? Probably, but who doesn’t love a bit of optimism? After enduring a tough spell, the Red Devils finally have something to celebrate, and this time, we’ll give them their moment.

Since Erik ten Hag’s departure last month, United have turned things around impressively. Under Ruud van Nistelrooy’s interim management, the team remained unbeaten, and Ruben Amorim’s arrival has only continued that streak.

The initial draw with Ipswich wasn’t the dream start, and there were shaky moments against Bodo/Glimt in midweek, but everything clicked during Sunday’s dominant 4-0 win over Everton.

United’s standout star: Amad Diallo

Sunday’s victory marked United’s best performance this season. Even Joshua Zirkzee found the net twice, a notable feat considering his sluggish displays since his opening-night goal against Fulham.

But the real hero of the day was 22-year-old winger Amad Diallo. Once seen as a promising forward, Diallo has been repurposed as a wing-back, and he’s thriving in this new role under Amorim.

Diallo delivered two assists against Everton, setting up Rashford’s second goal with a burst of pace and laying off Zirkzee’s second with a clever run. His numbers highlight his influence:

• Minutes played: 90
• Touches: 71
• Key passes: 3
• Assists: 2
• Successful dribbles: 4/4
• Ground duels won: 11/14

Diallo’s resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time as United prepare for a midweek clash with Arsenal, though they will be without Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez due to suspension.

Concerns around Casemiro

While Rashford, Zirkzee, and Diallo shone, Casemiro had a less-than-stellar outing. Subbed off after 66 minutes, he drew criticism from manager Ruben Amorim for a lack of pressing.

Journalist Samuel Luckhurst rated Casemiro’s performance 5/10, noting his “desperate sliding challenges” as a liability. Against Arsenal’s midfield, led by Martin Odegaard, this lack of control could prove costly.

Casemiro’s stats weren’t terrible—he won seven of ten duels and had an 85% pass accuracy—but his lack of mobility remains a concern. Amorim may consider pairing Manuel Ugarte with Mason Mount instead for greater energy and pressing ability in the midfield battle at the Emirates.

United are riding a wave of momentum, and Sunday’s win shows they’re improving. However, with sterner tests ahead, tactical adjustments will be crucial to maintain their progress.