Manchester United left-back Tyrell Malasia could be two to three weeks away from making his long-awaited return after more than a year out injured.
Malasia has not played at club level since May 2023 due to a serious knee problem that required surgery. Due to secondary issues, he had to go under the knife again and start the rehabilitation process all over again, which made his progress very slow.
The 25-year-old has been inching towards full fitness over the summer and autumn. It was hoped that he would be able to return after the October international break, but that proved to be too soon, but Malasia is thought to be closer than ever.
Dutch publication Voetbal International reported that Malasia was “rapidly” becoming fit for the game. United are taking a cautious approach but are expected to be back on the pitch by early November. If all goes well, it may arrive by the end of October.
Later, the club itself confirmed on Thursday that Malaca took part in the first part of the day’s group training and “continued to make progress towards recovery”.
Malasia was a key player in the team when he first arrived/LINDSEY PARNABY/GettyImages
Luke Shaw has also been sidelined in recent months, and while Nousea Mazraoui recovers from minor heart surgery, the full-back depth is further depleted and comes at a critical juncture.
United face Brentford and Fenerbahce next week, before facing West Ham United on October 27th. If Malasia is fit enough, the Carabao Cup match against Leicester City on October 30 could be the perfect opportunity for him to return. Erik ten Hag’s side will start November with Chelsea’s visit to Old Trafford, followed by a match against PAOK in the Europa League.
Malasia played a key role for United in his and Ten Hag’s debut season in Manchester in 2022/23. Although not a regular starter, the defender made 39 appearances in all competitions, recording his most consistent chances in the early rounds of the Europa League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
