**Amad’s Candid Take on Leeds’ Jaka Bijol After Manchester United’s Draw**
In a tightly contested pre-season friendly at Stockholm’s Strawberry Arena, Manchester United and Leeds United played out a goalless draw, marking the start of their 2025/26 campaigns. The match, attended by actor and Leeds investor Will Ferrell, saw both sides field new signings, with Leeds’ Jaka Bijol catching the eye. Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, known for his flair and directness, offered a brutally honest verdict on the Slovenian defender’s performance, breaking the silence among United players post-match.
Bijol, a recent addition to Leeds from Udinese, partnered Joe Rodon in central defense, forming a formidable barrier that stifled United’s attack. The 23-year-old’s composure, boasting a 97% passing accuracy and winning 100% of his aerial duels, frustrated United’s forwards, including debutant Matheus Cunha and young striker Chido Obi. Amad, who played as a wing-back and tested Bijol with his pace, acknowledged the defender’s impact. “He’s a tough one,” Amad said on social media, per Manchester Evening News. “Big, strong, and reads the game well. Made it hard for us out there.” His rare public praise for an opponent underscores Bijol’s standout display.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke praised Bijol’s seamless integration, noting his synergy with Rodon kept United’s attack at bay. Despite United’s 10 shots in the second half, Leeds’ defense, anchored by Bijol, held firm, with goalkeeper Illan Meslier denying Patrick Dorgu and Kobbie Mainoo hitting the bar. United’s Ruben Amorim admitted his side lacked quality in the final third, a sentiment echoed by Amad’s frustration at failing to break through Bijol’s defensive wall.
The draw highlighted both teams’ need for attacking sharpness ahead of the Premier League season. For Leeds, Bijol’s performance signals a promising partnership with Rodon, potentially their first-choice center-back pairing. United, meanwhile, relied on Amad’s energy and trickery, but his comments reflect respect for a formidable opponent. As both sides gear up for their next friendlies—United in the USA and Leeds against Everton—this encounter sets the tone for a competitive season ahead, with Bijol emerging as a key figure for Leeds’ Premier League return.
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