The majority of Manchester United's first-team squad attended a team-bonding meal at The Ivy this week, but fans have raised concerns over one absentee from a video posted online.
Earlier this month – after he previously suggested that Tyrell Malacia was close to making a return – Erik ten Hag confirmed the Dutch defender is likely to miss the rest of the 2023/24 season.
Malacia has not played for United since undergoing surgery on a knee injury last summer. In fact, the 24-year-old full-back hasn't featured for the Reds since May 28, 2023.
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When asked how far away the Netherlands international is from returning, Ten Hag said: “I think it’s going to be difficult for this season to be available.
“He will fight, he’s back on the pitch, but not in the team and the process had some setbacks and is still going really slowly forward, and the season is going to an end.”
Ten Hag was hopeful of Malacia's return from a knee complaint following setbacks during rehab, but it looks increasingly likely he will miss the rest of the campaign.
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Fans have naturally grown concerned about the whereabouts of Malacia. He hasn't featured on any of United's social media platforms this season, according to X user All Sportz.
And the left-back has been inactive on the likes of Twitter and Instagram.
After posting regularly on the platform last season, Malacia's last Instagram post was uploaded on July 11, 2023. His last tweet? July 15, 2023.
The lack of updates regarding his return from injury has been a talking point on social media.
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And when he wasn't spotted with the first-team squad as they departed The Ivy venue on Wednesday, fans were quick to voice their concerns.
One said: "Anyone else genuinely concerned about Malacia now though?" while another commented: "WHERE IS MALACIA THIS ISN'T A JOKE ANYMORE."
A third wrote: "Where is Malacia?" and a fourth said: "Can Malacia just post something. A video. A picture. A tweet. Let’s just know he’s ok. Cause it’s looking out of hand."
A fifth added: "Okay seriously now where is Malacia?"
After SPORTbible reached out to Manchester United for comment, an official from the club confirmed that Malacia was present at the team dinner as he continues his rehabilitation from a knee injury.
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Malacia's absence continues to be felt on the pitch. United are currently without their first-choice left-back Luke Shaw after he suffered a leg muscle injury in their Premier League clash against Luton.
Featured Image Credit: ejcclips/TikTokTopics: Manchester United, Tyrell Malacia, Premier League
