Amad has given Manchester United a decision to make on Ralf Rangnick favourite next season

When the time comes for Erik ten Hag to sit down and analyse the data from Manchester United's army of loanees this summer, Amad's numbers will stick out like a sore thumb.

The Ivorian, who joined United from Italian side Atalanta in January 2021, has been the jewel in the Reds' loan crown this season, playing an instrumental role in Sunderland's hopes of achieving a second successive promotion. Ahead of the final day of the Championship campaign next Monday, the winger has scored 12 goals and claimed four assists in 39 appearances for the Black Cats.

Amad's time on Wearside has enabled him to experience the thrill and the competitive nature of first-team football in England on a regular basis for the very first time. His silky skills and exciting style of play have meant that he has lit up the Championship, capturing the hearts of Sunderland's supporters, who may have to say goodbye following their final day trip to Preston North End.

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Amad has benefitted from playing for a club with huge expectation levels and a manager who knows how to nurture and develop young talent. Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray worked with Liverpool's Harvey Elliott at Blackburn Rovers in 2020/21.

But Amad's season-long loan spell at the Stadium of Light, most certainly in his eyes, will count for very little if he fails to make the breakthrough he is desperate for at Old Trafford. But, as was reported by the Manchester Evening News last month, United manager Ten Hag is prepared to open the door on Amad's path to the first team for next season.

Club staff, unsurprisingly, are understood to be pleased with the progress Amad has made at Sunderland this term, hence why Ten Hag is