Amad Diallo Fires Back at Fans with Shocking Gesture After Insult to His Mother

Manchester United winger Amad Diallo found himself at the center of a fiery controversy this week after making an obscene hand gesture toward fans outside the team hotel in Kuala Lumpur. The incident, which occurred following United’s 1-0 post-season defeat to the ASEAN All-Stars, has since gone viral across social media platforms, drawing both criticism and support for the 22-year-old Ivory Coast international.

According to Manchester United, the gesture — in which Amad was photographed raising his middle finger — was a direct reaction to what the club described as “serious personal abuse” from a section of the crowd. Sources within the club clarified that the abuse was not racist but instead targeted Amad’s mother. The winger later addressed the situation on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “I have respect for people but not for the one who insults my mum. I shouldn’t have reacted like that but I don’t regret what I did.”

This isn’t the first time Amad’s past has come under the spotlight. During his early career at Atalanta, the Ivorian was involved in a high-profile investigation regarding false documentation, resulting in a fine and prompting him to drop “Traore” from his name, asking to be known simply as Amad.

The incident comes at a challenging time for the Red Devils. The Premier League giants are currently wrapping up a bruising post-season tour, having just endured one of their worst campaigns in recent history — finishing 15th in the league and falling to Tottenham in the Europa League final. Head coach Ruben Amorim, speaking ahead of their next friendly in Hong Kong, acknowledged the emotional weight the team is carrying. “We just want to turn the page and improve next season,” said the Portuguese tactician.

Despite the disappointment, Amorim defended Amad’s passion and the squad’s intent to engage with supporters worldwide. “It’s not easy to face fans after such a season, but giving back to them is important. Still, it’s tough when emotions run high,” he added.

Amorim will now have to juggle squad selection carefully as several senior players, including Harry Maguire, André Onana, and Diogo Dalot, are currently in India for a supporter engagement event. Left-back Luke Shaw is also sidelined due to injury.

Whether Amad’s response was justified or not remains a topic of fierce debate online, but the incident underscores the pressure and scrutiny professional footballers endure — especially in times of collective disappointment. As Manchester United look toward a much-needed reset, all eyes will be on how the team — and players like Amad — handle the road ahead.