Tyrell Malacia
CIN
Left Wingback
Overlapping Full Back
Aug 17, 1999 (27)
Left
5'7"
148 lb
Dealing with ankle issue
Malacia (ankle) is questionable for Saturday's MLS clash against D.C. United after being substituted at halftime Wednesday and missing Friday's training session, according to coach Pat Noonan, per Laurel Pfahler.
Analysis: Malacia is dealing with an ankle issue that forced him off at halftime Wednesday, raising concerns about his availability for Saturday's trip to D.C. United. The left wing-back was unable to participate in Friday's training session, leaving his status uncertain ahead of the weekend. His potential absence could open the door for Bryan Ramirez to start at left wing-back, providing Cincinnati with an alternative on the flank. A final decision on Malacia's involvement has yet to be confirmed.
Nine crosses in loss
Malacia registered nine crosses (five accurate) and four chances created in Sunday's 2-0 loss against Columbus Crew.
Analysis: Malacia made his third consecutive start Sunday and put together another good performance. He led the team in crosses, accurate crosses and chances created, providing a spark on the attack from the left. He's been a great addition since joining the club in September and will play an important role over the final stretch of the season as Cincinnati attempts to hold onto the final playoff spot.
Pair of assists in loss
Malacia assisted twice to go with two shots (two on goal), six crosses (one accurate) during Wednesday's 3-2 loss to New England.
Analysis: Malacia assisted both goals during Wednesday's loss. The defender was brilliant getting forward and nearly had a goal himself with two powerful shots. He did come off looking sore in the second half, and it would be a major disappointment if he's injured after one of his best performances of the season.
Joins Cincinnati
Malacia signed with FC Cincinnati through June 2027, with an option for the 2027-28 MLS season, the club announced.
Analysis: Malacia arrives with extensive experience from top-level European football after making 50 appearances for Manchester United and 137 for Feyenoord. The left-back offers quality on the ball and strong defensive instincts, while his nine caps for the Netherlands add further international experience. He also won the EFL Cup with Manchester United and league titles in the Netherlands with PSV and the Eredivisie, giving Cincinnati an experienced option for the back line.
Makes first match squad
Malacia was in the match squad for Saturday's clash against Brighton for the first time this season and is working well towards a return to the pitch, coach Ruben Amorim said to the media. "I love all my players. I demand the same thing from all the players. He is working really well, he adapted really well to our team. For me, there are no favourites. If you work, you play for Manchester United. If you don't, you need to work harder to get back on the pitch."
Analysis: Malacia hasn't played for Manchester United since January and has lacked motivation and contributions since the pre-season, which led coach Ruben Amorim to keep him out of the senior squad. The defender now appears to be improving as he was included in his first match squad of the season to face the Seagulls. His role for the near future remains uncertain for now, but he could be a useful rotational option if fully focused again.
Trains with group
Malacia (undisclosed) is back in team training, according to his club.
Analysis: Malacia was said to be reintegrated to the team Tuesday, and that claim appears to be true Wednesday, with the defender training amongst his teammates. This is solid news for the defender who has earned limited time since the 2022/23 season due to constant injuries. He will now hope this translates to playing time soon, possibly after the international break.
Back with squad
Malacia has been reintegrated into the squad and is set to train soon, according to The Athletic.
Analysis: Malacia was expected to return to training soon and is now set to do so, as the defender has reintegrated with the squad. This is huge news for the defender, who has only played in 11 games since the 2022/23 season due to constant injuries. The hope will be that he is cleared for play by the end of the month, although the role he will hold with the squad once fit is unknown.
Will resume training with U21 squad
Malacia (undisclosed) is expected to resume team training with the U21 squad in the coming week, coach Ruben Amorim said in the press conference, according to Simon Stone of BBC Sport.
Analysis: Malacia returned from his half-season loan spell at PSV at the end of last season and has since been out of the squad. That said, the defender is expected to resume ball training with Manchester United's U21 squad, although that does not clarify what status he will hold with the Red Devils this season. Coach Ruben Amorim said it will have to be seen how it goes with the youth team before giving him a chance to comeback with the senior squad.
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