Tyrell Malacia isn’t a key player for Manchester United during the 2023-2024 Premier League season. But, maybe he could have been in another life. The talented player from the Netherlands opted against the medical advice from the Manchester United physiotherapy team. Ever since this life-altering decision, his loan move to the Reds has been terrible.
Tyrell Malacia Goes Against Manchester United
Happy to end the Premier League season with three points at our home ?
Next: FA Cup final ? pic.twitter.com/f1DCEDLMbt
— Tyrell Malacia (@TyrellMalaciia) May 28, 2023
Malacia injured his left knee during a stint in London last summer. Ever since his harmful knee injury, he hasn’t been able to play for the Manchester side – or anyone else. The talented defender was supposed to be a regular fixture, or at least a dependable sub, for the English side. However, rumors state that Malacia didn’t clearly communicate the extent of his injury to the club.
The young Dutch player made almost 40 appearances during his first season in Manchester. This is a great start for an athlete who is just 24 years old and breaking into the Premier League. However, consistent knee pain at the end of the season hampered his ability to train and play at a high level.
But, instead of telling the managers, physio team, and sports exercise team about his pain, he kept silent. That is one of the biggest mistakes that any player can make while on a sports team. Keeping information quiet, especially about injuries, can lead to long-term issues.
It is understandable. A young player wants to get tons of minutes, make money, and maintain his contract. He was sold to Manchester United from Dutch side Feyenoord for over 14 million pounds. That is a decent transfer fee for a young player – and no doubt he wanted to keep his favorable contract.
Because of internal or external pressure, he reported to pre-season training in July at less than 100% fitness. Manchester United allowed Malacia to return to the Netherlands to get surgery before the season started.
The surgery didn’t go as planned. Malacia returned to Manchester but had another knee issue spurred by an unsuccessful surgery. United this time allowed him to use the same surgeon but under the supervision of a United representative.
Manchester United Needs Malacia in Key Football Moments
Erik Ten Hag hasn’t had the best things to say about the Dutch player.
It’s going to be difficult for him this season to be available. He’s back on the pitch, but not in the team…he’s going forward really slowly and the season is coming to an end.’
Ten Hag has had a hard season as it is, barely scraping by some games and facing constant critique. Another solid defender would have really helped his struggling team. Ten Hag even had to put Antony in left back the other week, showing how scarce the bench is for United.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.