Manchester United forward Amad has delivered an emotional response to the dismissal of manager Ruben Amorim, describing the departed Portuguese coach as a father figure who transformed his career at Old Trafford.
An Emotional Farewell to a Mentor
Amorim was relieved of his duties at the start of last week following a contentious post-match press conference after United's 1-1 draw with Leeds United. The news reached Amad while he is on international duty with the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking ahead of his nation's crucial quarter-final clash against Egypt on Saturday at 7pm, the 23-year-old winger admitted the sacking was a "tough topic" that left him feeling "very sad." He revealed he sent a personal message to Amorim to express his gratitude.
"I was a bit sad, because he's the coach who gave me more visibility and more opportunities to play for Manchester United," Amad stated. "I even sent him a message to thank him for everything he did for me - in my life and especially in my career. I wished him good luck wherever he goes."
A Father-Son Bond at Carrington
Amad, who flourished under Amorim's guidance this season, painted a picture of a uniquely supportive relationship. "We had a very good relationship, almost like a father-and-son relationship," he explained. "He understood me, and gave me a lot of advice, and let me play freely."
Despite his personal disappointment, the Ivorian star is now fully focused on his national team's AFCON campaign. "It was a difficult moment for me, but I'm really focused on Ivory Coast and on this competition," he said. "I want to finish well here and try to win this AFCON."
He added philosophically: "It's very unfortunate, but that's life. You have to adapt, that's football. I wish him all the best in life and his next club. My focus is Ivory Coast. I have to give everything for the country."
Manchester Derby Availability Hangs in Balance
Amad's AFCON participation has already seen him miss United's last five Premier League fixtures, and he will be absent for this weekend's FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton. His involvement in the upcoming Manchester derby against City next weekend now depends entirely on Ivory Coast's result against Egypt.
If Ivory Coast beat Egypt, Amad will remain in Africa for either the final or the third-place play-off, ruling him out of the crucial league clash at the Etihad.
If Ivory Coast lose, he will return to the UK in time to be considered for selection against Pep Guardiola's side.
United have received one piece of positive squad news, however, as Cameroon's elimination by Morocco means Bryan Mbeumo will be available for the derby. Conversely, Moroccan full-back Noussair Mazraoui will be absent as his nation prepares for a semi-final.
