Forgotten Man United star returns to squad despite Ruben Amorim snub | OneFootball

Malacia Returns to Manchester United Fold

Manchester United have confirmed Tyrell Malacia is back in first-team training, marking an important step in the Dutch defender’s career after an extended period away from the spotlight. As reported by Sky Sports, the left-back had been part of the so-called “bomb squad” of players deemed surplus to requirements in the summer. That group included Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Antony, with all four moving on, leaving Malacia the only one to remain.

Reintegration with senior squad

The 26-year-old has been training with United’s under-21s while awaiting clarity on his future. Although a loan move to Spanish side Elche collapsed, Malacia has now been fully reintegrated into Ruben Amorim’s senior squad. The report stressed that this was a planned step and not connected to recent results or injuries within the team.

A career paused by injury

Malacia first arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 as Ten Hag’s initial signing, immediately establishing himself as a regular during the 2022-23 campaign. His progress was halted by a serious knee injury that forced him out for the entirety of the 2023-24 season. In search of minutes, he joined PSV Eindhoven on loan in the latter part of last season, featuring eight times under Ruben Amorim.

United’s defensive depth boosted

For United, his return to training provides another option in a position that has seen uncertainty. Luke Shaw’s fitness has been managed carefully and Dorgu is still young and settling into life at Man Unite. Malacia’s availability therefore bolsters Amorim’s squad ahead of a demanding run of fixtures, and his energy down the left flank could become valuable once again.

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“Malacia will return to first-team training with Manchester United,” confirmed the report, adding to the sense of optimism that his career at Old Trafford might finally resume its trajectory.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporter’s perspective, this feels like a positive development but also raises questions. Tyrell Malacia showed promise when he first arrived, with his pace and aggression a clear asset, but two years of setbacks have left doubts about whether he can return at the same level. Many fans will remember how his injury robbed the squad of balance at left-back, forcing tactical adjustments and making United vulnerable in key matches.

Supporters may also view his reintegration as a second chance for both player and manager. With Luke Shaw often managing his own injuries and Dorgu establishing himself as the first choice LWB. Malacia stepping back in could perhaps offer an alternative to Dorgu. Yet, there is a note of caution. The “bomb squad” episode still lingers, and while Malacia escaped a permanent exit, some fans will wonder if the club fully trusts him for the long-term.

If he can build on the form he showed in 2022, Malacia might turn out to be a useful figure once more. For United fans, the hope is that this is not just a reintegration for numbers, but the start of a revival that adds steel and energy to the side’s defensive shape.