Amad Diallo, the former Sunderland standout, conveyed a brief yet heartfelt message following the departure of Tony Mowbray from the Stadium of Light, an announcement that reverberated through football circles late on Monday.
Mowbray, alongside assistant manager Mark Venus, bid adieu to Sunderland, ending a tenure that saw the club secure a commendable ninth position in the Championship, just three points shy of the play-off spots. Under Mowbray’s guidance, the Black Cats had surged to the Championship play-offs last season, an achievement that marked a commendable return to the Championship.
Diallo, a pivotal figure in Sunderland’s journey to the play-offs, clinched the PFA Championship Fans’ Player of the Year award during his loan spell from Manchester United, delivering some of his finest performances under Mowbray’s tutelage. Although currently sidelined due to injury, Diallo remains eager to make his mark at Old Trafford upon his return.
Expressing his gratitude to his former boss upon learning of Mowbray’s departure, Diallo took to social media, responding succinctly to Sunderland’s official statement: “Thanks boss and good luck,” shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman, confirming Mowbray’s exit, lauded the manager’s impact, acknowledging his role in steering Sunderland toward the Championship Play-Offs and his pivotal contribution to team development.
The club has designated Mike Dodds as the caretaker manager in the interim period until a new appointment is finalized. Dodds will prepare the Sunderland squad for their upcoming clash against West Bromwich Albion this weekend.
As Sunderland navigates this transition, the club remains resolute in its pursuit of the right candidate to lead the team, underscoring its unwavering commitment to its ambitions and strategic direction.
