Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia is closing in on a return to action having not played since May 2023, according to manager Erik ten Hag.
The Netherlands international missed the entire 2023-24 season due to a severe knee injury that required surgery and was absent from United’s pre-season tour in the United States.
However, the 25-year-old left-back, who has been diligently working on his individual fitness programme, is nearing a comeback to group training after more than 16 months out.
Ten Hag said: “Of course, we want to motivate him to return, but it’s not so easy when you are so long away. Over a season now from an injury to return, but he’s working very hard, he’s progressing really well in this moment.
“He’s making big steps, so we think, at short notice, we can expect him in the team training, and he is a talent, it’s natural. I expect also, soon, he can return into games then.”
Malacia last featured for United in their 2-1 home win against Fulham at the end of the 2022-23 campaign.
His extended absence has left United with limited options in Malacia’s position, considering fellow left-back Luke Shaw’s recent fitness issues. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can both provide cover, as well as Lisandro Martinez.
United, who are looking to bounce back from their 3-0 defeat at home to rivals Liverpool before the international break, are in action against Southampton at St Mary’s on Saturday.
(Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
