Man Utd give mixed injury update on forgotten star ahead of pre-season | Football

Malacia missed the entirety of the 2023/24 campaign thanks to a knee injury he picked up last summer.

The Dutchman returned to training toward the end of the season, but reportedly suffered another setback, prompting reports that United are looking to bring in another left-back.

However, on Sunday the Red Devils issued an update on the 24-year-old which will please fans and most importantly Erik ten Hag.

‘There was encouraging news from Carrington on Friday after Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia progressed his fitness programme,’ a statement read.

But it’s not all good news, as it was later confirmed that Malacia had not been included in the travelling squad for United’s first pre-season fixture on Monday evening against Norweigan side Rosenborg.

Malacia moved to Old Trafford from Feyenoord in 2022, becoming Ten Hag’s first signing for the club, and would make 39 appearances in his debut season, helping them win the League Cup before suffering the aforementioned knee injury.

His absence was dearly felt last season, especially as Luke Shaw’s own injury issues meant the side rarely had a left-back available, a problem that contributed to United’s worst ever Premier League finish.

They are then set to play Rangers, Liverpool, Real Betis and Arsenal before their season gets underway with the Community Shield against rivals Manchester City.

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