07 September 2023 , 14:48
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Manchester United have parted ways with Eric Bailly after the central defender saw his move to Besiktas confirmed and it is unlikely that manager Erik ten Hag is cut up about it.
The Ivorian has long been on the outside looking in of United's first team and spent last season away from Old Trafford on loan to French side Marseille. Bailly's last Premier League outing for the Red Devils came in November 2021. It is a damning indictment of how far the 29-year-old has fallen that Marseille had an option to buy him, but opted against doing so.
Such was United's desperation to move him on, RMC Sport claims that the club agreed to let Bailly depart for free despite the fact that the Ivory Coast international still had one year left to run on his contract. Having been originally signed from Villarreal in 2016 for £30million, the Red Devils are overseeing quite the loss.
It seems as if Bailly has been destined to leave the club ever since he took a shot at United by claiming that they tend to favour English players. Speaking to The Times prior to Ten Hag's arrival at Old Trafford, Bailly said: "[United] should avoid favouring English players and give everyone a chance.
"[The club should] encourage competition in the dressing room, not just look out for some. I've always had the feeling that the national player was prioritised. That doesn't happen at Chelsea or other big Premier League clubs.
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"Some people take it for granted that they are going to start, and that weakens the team. Luckily, Ten Hag has a lot of character and I hope he can change that dynamic."
Instead, Ten Hag shipped him out on loan before overseeing his permanent exit to Turkey the following summer. Before this season kicked off, the United boss is believed to have made clear to Bailly that the centre-back was not part of his plans and told to train with the reserves.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Was Bailly wrong to suggest United favour English players? Comment below
Eric Bailly was surplus to requirements at Old Trafford and has since left to join Besiktas (Manchester United via Getty Images)Despite this, Bailly clearly harbours no hard feelings towards United, as shown by his farewell statement on social media once his transfer to Besiktas had been confirmed.
"As I leave this club after many years of incredible memories, outstanding teammates, and trophies, I want to express my profound gratitude," he wrote. "This chapter may be closing, but the friendships and memories will forever remain in my heart. The fans here are the real champions. Thanks."