Man United are very close to completing their first signing of the summer with the acquisition of Dutch left-back Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord.
The Red Devils have already agreed a fee with the Eredivisie side for him and are close to agreeing on personal terms too.
Erik ten Hag is reportedly a big fan of the 22-year-old after watching him impress in the Dutch league last season.
With that being said, let’s take a look at the two ways United can line up with Malacia next season (these lineups have only been made involving current players in the squad).
Option 1: As Luke Shaw’s Alternative/Replacement
Malacia is expected to be the second-choice left-back at Old Trafford and will provide competition for Luke Shaw. But Ten Hag can also bench the Englishman to play the 22-year-old defender if he wants in certain games.
The Dutch international is a hard-working, efficient left-back and can fit in well into United’s system. He’ll probably look to create a strong bond with Jadon Sancho, who is expected to play as the left-winger for the majority of the campaign.
Also Read
Erik ten Hag Makes Urgent Decision On McTominay’s Man United Future
Ander Herrera Finally Names The Best Player Of All Time Between Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi
Option 2: In a back-five
If Ten Hag ever wants to use a three-man backline for United, he can probably play both Shaw as well as Malacia in the same team. Luke has proven himself well capable of operating as a left-sided center-back in a back three in the past.
In that case, Malacia can operate as a left wing-back in which he’ll get more license to roam forward. The 22-year-old loves to dribble past players and burst into attacking areas, so he can probably love the freedom in this kind of a system as well.
