Diogo Dalot has received unexpected recognition despite Manchester United’s disappointing results, earning a place in WhoScored’s Premier League Team of the Month for October. The Manchester Evening News reported on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, that the Portuguese defender was selected alongside several outstanding performers after producing statistics that attracted attention during a difficult period for his club.

October brought further frustration for United, continuing the problems that had affected their campaign since September. The team struggled to secure positive results across competitions, increasing pressure on head coach Michael Carrick and raising questions about the club’s overall direction.

Although supporters have continued to back Carrick, much of their dissatisfaction has also been directed towards the players, ownership and football director Jason Wilcox. Their reaction suggests that many fans believe the problems extend beyond the manager and involve wider issues within the club.

Several United players have struggled to deliver performances that match their expected standards. However, individual displays can sometimes appear different when assessed through statistical measurements rather than the team's overall results. Dalot’s inclusion illustrates that distinction, as his numbers during October earned him recognition despite United’s poor form.

The defender has frequently faced criticism for his performances, but his contributions in the Premier League last month were sufficient to secure a place in WhoScored’s strongest defensive selection. He joined Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães and other recognised performers in the monthly team.

Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen was selected between the posts, while the defensive line featured Dalot, James Hill, Josh Acheampong and Gabriel. The midfield included Jérémy Doku, Declan Rice, Pedro Neto and Jordan Henderson. Nicolas Jackson and Evanilson completed the attacking positions after their statistical performances during October’s league fixtures.

Dalot recorded 22 successful duels and won 11 aerial contests during the month, accumulating 302 minutes of Premier League action. Those figures contributed to his selection and offered some recognition of his individual efforts during an otherwise difficult period for United.

Nevertheless, the recognition does not remove concerns about his overall defensive contribution. Neither Dalot nor Manchester United managed to record a victory during October, and the team also failed to keep a clean sheet. His individual statistics therefore tell only part of the story surrounding his performances.

The Portuguese international has remained a regular selection under successive United managers, including Erik ten Hag, Rúben Amorim and Carrick. His continued involvement may partly reflect the limited competition for full-back positions, alongside his ability to operate on either the right or left side of defence.

Dalot’s Premier League record this season includes nine appearances and 649 minutes on the pitch. He has registered 15 key passes, maintained 79 per cent passing accuracy, made 17 tackles, recorded one block and completed 13 interceptions.

He has also won 47 duels, attempted 19 dribbles and successfully completed seven. These figures demonstrate his involvement in both defensive and attacking phases, although United need those contributions to translate into better collective performances.

Ultimately, Dalot’s monthly selection provides personal recognition, but it does not resolve the wider concerns surrounding Manchester United. He and his teammates must deliver greater consistency and help the club return to winning ways. Statistics may highlight individual strengths, but supporters will ultimately judge progress through convincing displays and positive results.