Former Red Devil Launches Stinging Critique
Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker has delivered a brutal assessment of current full-back Diogo Dalot, accusing the Portuguese international of being "more interested in high-fiving people than actually doing his job properly." The criticism comes despite Dalot being one of manager Ruben Amorim's most trusted players this season.
A Trusted Player Under Scrutiny
Since his arrival from Porto in 2018, Diogo Dalot has become one of United's longest-serving squad members. Under the guidance of fellow countryman Ruben Amorim, his importance has grown significantly. Only captain Bruno Fernandes has played more minutes for the Portuguese coach this term.
Dalot's versatility has been tested this campaign, with the 26-year-old regularly starting at right wing-back and also being deployed on the left flank. His selection ahead of Patrick Dorgu contributed to United's recent run of three consecutive victories against Sunderland, Liverpool, and Brighton.
However, a poor performance during the away fixture against Nottingham Forest at the start of November led to his demotion to the bench for the subsequent match against Tottenham.
Celebrations Versus Defensive Duties
Parker, who made over 100 appearances for United in the 1990s, showed little patience for Dalot's enthusiastic on-pitch demeanour. The defender is frequently seen congratulating teammates during breaks in play, particularly after defensive interventions.
Dalot has previously defended this behaviour, stating: "Us defenders, we don't score goals too often, so these are our little goals during the 90 minutes. This is the goal for us so we will celebrate and I think it's something that came completely naturally from us."
Parker remains unconvinced, insisting to Metro via Unibet that "high-fives don't win you games of football." He elaborated: "By the time you've done your high-five, they could have actually bounced off of your great tackle and gone and scored a goal. So, high-five at half-time or after the game. So, no, you can't trust Dalot there."
The former England right-back pinpointed several specific deficiencies, claiming: "You're not getting enough quality in the final third from him as well. He doesn't do enough defensively. He switches off too much, his clearances are poor, very poor, that's one reason."
Midfield Concerns and Casemiro's Vital Role
The analysis also extended to United's midfield dynamics, where Casemiro has re-established himself as a crucial figure. Despite being substituted before the 75th minute in seven of his nine league starts this season, the Brazilian's impact is undeniable.
The statistics reveal a stark contrast in United's defensive resilience. On average, the team concedes a goal every 129 minutes when Casemiro is playing, compared to a goal every 29 minutes when he is absent.
His usual replacement, Manuel Ugarte, has failed to impress Parker. "I quite liked him because he was a breath of fresh air when he arrived," Parker admitted. "But when he comes on now, United concede. They generally concede. At best they start to be under pressure, and that's because of someone like Casemiro's coming off for him."
Parker's advice to Amorim was unequivocal: "Keep Casemiro on, keep Ugarte on the bench." He emphasised the need for continuity in midfield, even when protecting a lead, arguing that unnecessary changes disrupt the team's rhythm.
