Major update on Tyrell Malacia amid claims Man Utd star is 'struggling physically and mentally'

Fabrizio Romano provided an update on Manchester United full-back Tyrell Malacia.

Malacia has not made a single appearance for United since the final day of last season, while the 24-year-old has not posted on social media since July 2023.

The Dutchman’s absence has become more conspicuous with each passing week, with Fussball News journalist Christopher Michel alleging on Sunday that the player is struggling with both his physical and mental health.

Transfer guru Romano has now claimed that Malacia is “really struggling”, with United set to provide “clarity” on the situation in the coming weeks or months.

Speaking to the United Stand, Romano said: "It's a really complicated moment for the boy. He's really struggling.

“I think Manchester United will make some clarity in the next weeks or months to clarify what's happening."

Malacia's prolonged absence from the first team has led to much speculation on social media.

When SPORTbible reached out to United for comment on a previous story in March, an official from the club confirmed that Malacia was present at a team bonding dinner, which suggests he is still integrated with the squad.

Nevertheless, earlier this month United boss Erik ten Hag admitted he expected Malacia to miss the entire season through injury, having previously said he hoped to have the Netherlands international back imminently.

Asked how far away Malacia was from returning, the United boss 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.”

Malacia has not featured for United this season (Getty)

SPORTbible has contacted Malacia’s representatives and Manchester United for comment.

Malacia’s absence has coincided with a spate of injuries to United’s first-choice full-back Luke Shaw.

The England international has made just 12 Premier League appearances this term, having sustained a muscle injury that is expected to rule him out until mid-May.

United also signed Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham Hotspur in September to provide cover at left-back, but the Spain international was sent back to the north Londoners in January, before making a temporary switch to Brentford.

Topics: Manchester United, Tyrell Malacia, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League, Transfers

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.