Should Manchester United Let Eric Bailly Go?

Should Manchester United Let Eric Bailly Go?
[viz by The Devils Den]

Bailly Arrives At Manchester United

Eric Bailly signs for Manchester United
[via Daily Express]

On 8th June 2016, Eric Bailly became the first signing of the Jose Mourinho era when he was signed from Villarreal on a 4-year contract for a fee of €30 mn. The promising young Ivorian was regarded as the "next big thing" at the heart of the central defence for Manchester United. But his ride has been rough in England. A host of consecutive injuries have halted the Ivorian's career growth at Old Trafford.

The Ivorian Came With A Reputation

Bailly established himself as one of the best CBs in La Liga
[via BBC]

Eric joined the Red Devils as one of the best center backs in the La Liga during the 2015-16 season and playing a key role in the impressive Europa League run of Villarreal seeing them progress to the semi-finals. With a United Defence which lacked a strong, physical and brutal defender at that time, the arrival of Bailly clearly made United fans dream about him. He made his competitive debut against Leicester City in the FA Community Shield which United won 2-1. Bailly was named Man Of The Match on his debut Premier League match against Bournemouth. His excellent start at the club earned him the Player of the Month award in August.

With An Excellent Start, Came A Plague Of Injuries

Eric Bailly off injured in Manchester United's pre-season match vs Tottenham
[via Sky Sports]

A knee injury in October sidelined him for the rest of the season. This was the start of an injury-hit career for the Manchester United #3. In his 5 years at the club, he has only played 62 league games. The Ivorian has missed 536 days of football, ie, over 1.5 yrs of football since joining the Greater Manchester outfit, missing a total of 94 games. He's had all sorts of injuries, from minor knocks, back injuries, neck injuries, to major neck, ankle and knee injuries. He even required a knee surgery that ruled him out of the first half of the 19/20 season.

Bailly Under Solskjaer

Bailly has impressed in the limited opportunities under Solskjaer
[via MEN]

Since the arrival of Ole, Bailly has been a breath of fresh air. He hasn't been ruled for an extended period of time this season. The Ivorian has played well and has proved to be a good partner for Harry Maguire when called upon. His ability on the ball and close control is unmatched. He has lightning pace which helps cover Maguire in the offensive transitions of the opposition. Ole himself said that his style of "all-action defending" is the cause of his injuries. Being ruthless in tackles and lunging into challenges has been his way of defending and asserting himself on the opposition forwards.

What Does The Future Hold For Eric Bailly? 

Manchester United propose Eric Bailly swap for Pau Torres and more transfer rumours
[via MEN]

Reports say that Eric Bailly has put his contract talks on hold as he is concerned about his game time at Manchester United. He feels that the club is extending his contract just to get a higher fee for him in the Transfer Market. A young player who has a huge talent should indeed get more game time. But the injury history of Bailly will be a concern for any club investing in him. With Ole admitting that he is in need of a left-sided CB, Manchester United could probably hold a swap deal which includes Pau Torres with Villarreal - Bailly's former club would be a good deal for both sides and for the player.

What are your thoughts on Eric Bailly?

Do you want Bailly to stay at Manchester United?

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