Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia is expected to return to first-team action in October.
The left-back has been sidelined since May 2023 after undergoing two knee surgeries.
United made provisions for his return in January this year but were rocked by a setback in the Dutchman’s recovery.
Sergio Reguilon was drafted in as cover but offloaded just four months into a season-long loan in anticipation of Malacia’s return, leaving boss Erik ten Hag short of defensive options.
Malacia is continuing his rehabilitation programme at the club’s Carrington training base and Ten Hag has assured fans the defender is closing in on a return to action.
“He is now in a good place but he is not here because I only took players who could play games or be available for team training.,” Ten Hag said.
“He is not that far, but he is now in a progress situation. At a relatively short notice, he can again return into team training and then into team performance in games.
“I think it would be possible (for Malacia to return to action) in two months.”
Malacia has played just 39 times for the Red Devils since his arrival from Feyenoord in July 2022.
The 24-year-old posted an encouraging first season at Old Trafford but injury left Ten Hag without a recognised left-back for much of last season due to Luke Shaw’s unavailability.
Shaw made his return from injury at Euro 2024 and started for England in the final defeat to Spain.
He is set to report for training next week in a welcome boost for the Manchester United boss.
United round off their US tour on Saturday night with a friendly against rivals Liverpool in South Carolina.
Ten Hag’s men were beaten 2-1 by Arsenal before edging out Real Betis 3-2 on Wednesday night.
The United boss is counting the cost of his side’s pre-season exploits having lost Rasmus Hojlund and new signing Leny Yoro to injuries.
The Red Devils kick off their Premier League campaign at home to Fulham on August 16.
News Summary:
- Erik ten Hag reveals when Tyrell Malacia will return to Manchester United action
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