Erik Ten Hag's Reaction To Watching Tyrell Malacia For The First Time Is Brilliant, He Looks A Real Talent

Erik ten Hag's pitchside reaction to watching Tyrell Malacia in action for the first time was caught on camera, and it's fair to say his performance made an impression on the former Ajax manager.

Manchester United are said to be 'confident' about signing the 22-year-old left-back after talks with the Feyenoord defender's representatives progressed on Wednesday.

He is expected to cost in the region of £12.9 million, according to reports, as Erik ten Hag attempts to strengthen his squad ahead of the new campaign.

Image credit: Alamy

Malacia, who made 54 appearances for club and country last season, had been close to joining Ligue 1 side Lyon this summer and discussions with the French side were advanced.

But it looks like United have swooped to hijack the deal. So what should fans expect from the full-back?

Well, one of his best individual performances of the season for Feyenoord came in an Eredivisie clash against Ajax, where he managed to keep star man Antony quiet throughout.

As you can see in the brilliant footage below, Ten Hag can be seen pointing at Malacia during the game. "That kid at left-back is amazing," he says, before asking his assistant to take notes.

Later on in the clip, Ten Hag bemoans the fact that Antony was struggling in his battle against the Netherlands international. "Antony can't get passed," says the new Manchester United boss.

United fans were suitably impressed by his outing against the Eredivisie champions.

One commented on the clip saying: "This video makes me want Malacia and not want Antony," while another said: "Finally a left back who can defend."

A third wrote: "This shows the club are going for players the manager actually wants. Maybe things are changing after all."

As mentioned earlier, Malacia is set to become Erik ten Hag's first signing as manager, with a deal expected to be wrapped in the coming days.

Feyenoord sporting director Frank Arnesen told Dutch publication 1908nl: "The agreement is there. We are now waiting for Tyrell [Malacia]. If he says yes, then a transfer to Manchester United is imminent."

A compilation of Malacia in action has been doing the rounds on social media of late, You can see why he is regarded by many as one of the Eredivisie's top talents,

Topics: Tyrell Malacia, Football, Manchester United, Erik ten Hag, Eredivisie, Premier League, Ajax

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_