Malacia describes United exile as Cincinnati run restores regular football

Tyrell Malacia says he does not regret joining Manchester United as he rebuilds his career with FC Cincinnati. In a new BBC Sport interview, the Dutch defender described the difficulty of training outside United's first-team group and his satisfaction at playing regularly again after leaving Old Trafford when his contract expired in the summer.

The 27-year-old's appearance in Cincinnati's 2-1 win against DC United on October 21 marked his fourth consecutive start, a sequence he had not achieved since September 2022, according to the BBC. Malacia said he wanted to play as many matches as possible and bring his experience, energy and ability to his new club.

Malacia told the BBC that he had trained with United's younger age groups to maintain his fitness after being separated from Ruben Amorim's squad. He said the situation was mentally difficult but that he continued working. He did not know whether the decision originated with Amorim or elsewhere at the club, leaving responsibility for that decision unclear.

Cincinnati announced Malacia's signing on September 18, confirming a contract through June 2027 with an option for the 2027-28 MLS season. The club also acquired an international roster slot from St. Louis CITY SC for $200,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money. General manager Chris Albright highlighted the defender's experience, ability in possession and defensive qualities when welcoming him.

United's farewell announcement confirmed that Malacia finished with 50 first-team appearances after arriving from Feyenoord in July 2022. His final outing came as an 82nd-minute substitute for Luke Shaw against Brighton. United also recorded that his three senior appearances in his last season were all from the bench, against Newcastle United twice and Brighton, alongside appearances for the under-21s.

Cincinnati's signing announcement listed 137 first-team appearances for Feyenoord and nine senior Netherlands caps among Malacia's credentials. He was part of the Dutch squad at the 2022 World Cup and spent part of the 2024-25 season on loan at PSV Eindhoven. United also recognised his involvement in their 2023 Carabao Cup-winning squad in their farewell message.