Manchester United sign Diogo Dalot from Porto
By Wyatt Miner
As the summer commences, the pressure is on Jose Mourinho to sign players for next season. Additionally, Mourinho surprised numerous people by signing Diogo Dalot from Porto.
Dalot is a nineteen year old defender that came from Portuguese side, F.C. Porto. While Dalot is a young defender, Mourinho states that he could evolve into a great player for Manchester United. In addition, the boss states, “In his age group, he is the best full-back in Europe.” The pressure is on not only Mourinho, but also for Dalot.
Even though Dalot is still young, he already has experience playing in the Champions League. For instance, Dalot played in a 0-0 draw with Liverpool in the round of sixteen. With his experience in tough competitions, he will continue to grow at Manchester United. Furthermore, his experience against English competition will prove vital in his role at United.
In his short career with Porto, the nineteen year old full-back is a Portuguese champion, as well as a u-17 champion. In the 2017/18 season, Dalot made 34 appearances for Porto. Moreover, Dalot scored twice, and kept six clean sheets. Porto trusted Dalot to be a starter on multiple occasions, and this shows that the young defender is working towards becoming a starter in the Premier League.
Manchester United paid around nineteen million for the right-back, a low price in today’s saturated player market.
How will Dalot fare in the Premier League?
Obviously, it will take time for Dalot to start for Manchester United. Since Dalot is a right-back, there will be competition between him and Valencia for the starting position. Valencia is one of few players left from the Ferguson era, and he stepped up in the right back position. While Dalot is the future of Manchester United, he will have to fight for his playing time. However, the summer tour will provide valuable minutes for the young defender to grow accustomed to United’s level of play.
Mourinho notes, “He has all the attributes that a full-back needs: physicality, tactical intelligence and technical quality.” Also, he said, “Porto’s academy mentality prepares players for the maturity they need at the professional level.”
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Even though Dalot is still young, there is a possibility that he will grow into a superb defender. If Mourinho’s instincts prove correct, Dalot will star for Manchester United for many years to come. While Mourinho faces criticism for signing a young player, he is building the future. Signing older seasoned players earns championships, managers must build for the future. By signing Diogo Dalot, Mourinho is shaping the future of the club. Not all signings must be big names, as Mourinho must build the club to remain relevant.