Ruben Amorim Canvasses Player Views on Malacia’s Man Utd Return

Ruben Amorim Canvasses Player Views on Malacia’s Man Utd Return

Ruben Amorim’s approach to Tyrell Malacia’s future at Manchester United has come under the spotlight after reports revealed that the manager actively canvassed opinion from his first-team squad about the Dutch full-back’s potential reintegration. This move followed a turbulent summer in which Malacia became the sole member of the club’s so-called “bomb squad” to remain at Old Trafford, as teammates Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony all found new clubs.

Malacia: The Last ‘Bomb Squad’ Standing at Manchester United

The saga began when Malacia, who had not featured for United since a Europa League tie against FCSB in January 2025, returned from a loan spell at PSV. While at PSV, Malacia made eight appearances but struggled to regain his form after a lengthy injury layoff. Like his fellow loanees, he was told by Amorim that his services were no longer required, yet unlike Sancho, Rashford, Garnacho, and Antony, Malacia was unable to secure a move before the transfer window closed.

Amorim Canvassed Dressing Room Opinion for Malacia’s Reintegration

After the transfer deadline day, Amorim faced a dilemma: reintegrate a player who had been out of favor and fitness for months, or leave Malacia out of the first-team picture entirely. According to reports from The Athletic, the Portuguese coach sought input directly from senior Manchester United players about whether Malacia should be welcomed back into the squad. The feedback was largely supportive, with several players backing Malacia’s return. Taking their advice to heart, Amorim slowly eased the 26-year-old back into team activities. For the first time since his loan, Malacia was named on the bench for United’s 4-2 victory over Brighton at Old Trafford on October 25, signaling a possible new chapter for the Dutch defender.

Fitness Struggles and a Long Road Back for Malacia

Malacia’s journey at Manchester United has been far from straightforward. Initially signed by Erik ten Hag in 2022 from Feyenoord for £13 million, the left-back impressed during his first campaign with 39 appearances across all competitions. However, a severe meniscus injury to his knee disrupted his progress, forcing him to miss over 550 days of action. The long layoff meant that, even upon his return, Malacia was a shadow of the dynamic full-back who first donned the red shirt of United. Amorim’s squad overhaul placed further strain on his place at the club.

How Former ‘Bomb Squad’ Members Are Faring at Their New Clubs

While Malacia’s future at Manchester United hung in the balance, his former teammates from the “bomb squad” have had mixed fortunes since leaving the club. Antony has established himself as a starter for Real Betis in La Liga, while Marcus Rashford has made a strong impression at Barcelona, albeit on loan. Alejandro Garnacho has quickly adapted to life at Chelsea, contributing four goal involvements in his first 10 matches. In contrast, Jadon Sancho continues to struggle for consistent playing time during his loan stint at Aston Villa.

The Challenges Facing Amorim and Manchester United

The decision to gather squad feedback demonstrates Ruben Amorim’s player-centric management style, but it also highlights the broader issues at Manchester United. Squad morale, integration of returning loanees, and the handling of injury setbacks are all crucial for United as they look to build cohesion under Amorim’s leadership. Malacia’s case is emblematic of these challenges—a player with undoubted promise, yet facing an uphill battle to reclaim his spot and form.

Opinion: A Thoughtful Move That Could Benefit All

Ruben Amorim’s decision to consult his players on Tyrell Malacia’s reintegration is both pragmatic and progressive. Not only does it foster unity and a sense of ownership within the squad, but it also gives Malacia a much-needed support network as he battles back to full fitness. While Malacia faces a tough task to return to his former level, the open dialogue between manager and players could pave the way for a positive turnaround in his Manchester United career. For a team in transition, such inclusive leadership may well be key to navigating uncertain times ahead.

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