Man United summer signing has earned himself the nickname ‘The Pitbull’. Now, the Dutchman has revealed how that came about…
Tyrell Malacia will forever be known as the first signing made under Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. The early signs have certainly been positive.
From minute one, Malacia’s infectious, smiley personality and nature was on full display. The Dutchman’s positive vibes are no doubt a nice thing to have in and around the squad.
However, when he’s on the football field, Malacia is a completely different animal. As soon as he steps over those lines, out comes this consummate professional who wants to win at all costs.
Now, the Manchester Evening News have quotes from the United star, who explained that’s how he earned the nickname ‘The Pitbull’.
When asked about his nickname, Malacia responded:
“I’ve always been like this. I’m always smiling and, yeah, that’s just me. But, when I’m on the pitch, I’m a different person. Yes, yes [I am able to turn it on and off when I am playing].”
The nickname certainly feels fitting for the personality that Malacia is. I also think it’s great that United have someone like that out on the football field. For far too many times, this club has fielded starting line-ups filled with players who never looked totally driven to win at all costs.
If Malacia can instil some of that into the squad, it can only be a good thing going forward.
For the ex-Feyenoord man, it’s now about earning United starts on a regular basis. As things stand, I would assume that Luke Shaw is slightly ahead in the pecking order – though that gap feels like it’s closing pretty rapidly.
Malacia is the better fit for the Ten Hag system and if he continues to adjust at this fast pace, I really do believe the Dutchman won’t be kept waiting long until that left-back slot is his own.
Do you think Tyrell Malacia will start games regularly at Man United? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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