Cristiano Ronaldo made the news when his explosive interview with Piers Morgan came out before the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year. He slammed the United hierarchy, Erik Ten Haag, and former players in the interview. Although the Portuguese criticized the youngsters, praising one of them caught the eye of the United fans. And the game against Leeds United on Sunday showed he was right about the player.

Ronaldo heaped praise on his international teammate Diogo Dalot who plays at United as a right back, in the interview. The former United superstar is a fan of the attitude and professionalism that Dalot shows on and off the pitch. Dalot’s celebration and reaction to his substitution highlighted the same.

Diogo Dalot proves Cristiano Ronaldo was right

Dalot was once out of favor at United, as the club preferred Aaron Wan-Bissaka ahead of the Portuguese. However, the dip in the form of Bissaka saw Dalot starting the games under Ralf Rangnick last season, and the trend continued with Erik Ten Haag, too. Dalot has improved his game and is a starter ahead of Bissaka now.

The Portuguese has started 24 games this season so far in all competitions and is thriving under a new manager. His professionalism is what makes him a better player, and that is what Ronaldo spoke about in his interview. “He is young, but he is very, very professional. And I’m not doubting that he’s going to have longevity in football because he’s young, he’s smart, intelligent and is very professional,” Ronaldo said about Dalot. 

Dalot showed the same after being substituted against Leeds in the 73rd minute. He sprinted off the pitch after the substitution as United was looking to win a game at 0-0. The Portuguese was the only bench player who celebrated the goal on the sidelines with his manager after Rashford put United ahead in the 80th minute. 

Dalot will be in the final year of his contract next season. United is willing to offer him a new contract because of his performance and commitment. The player arrived earlier than expected after Morocco knocked out Portugal from the World Cup. Dalot is indeed proving Ronaldo right amid United’s attempt for a title charge. 

Is United in title contention?

United grabbed three crucial points against Leeds on Sunday. It was the second consecutive game against Leeds for United as they played out a draw last week. United left it late this time to score two goals in five minutes to get all three points. 

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With Arsenal dropping points in the last two games, the Red Devils are now five points behind them. It will be interesting to see how the title race goes as second-placed Manchester City is three points behind Arsenal and will take on the next in the midweek. United will keep an eye on the result of the game, as it will open up the title race if Arsenal drops points again. 

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Let us know your thoughts on how Dalot is performing this season. Is there any chance for Manchester United to have a charge at the Premier League title?