Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia was able to take part in the warm-up section of his team's training session on Friday, as the Dutchman stepped up his recovery from a serious knee injury.
Malacia missed the entirety of the 2023-24 campaign with a knee problem which is believed to have required two separate operations, and he has also been absent early this season.
The Netherlands international has been named in Man United's Europa League squad for the league phase of the competition, though, fuelling suggestions that he is closing in on a return to action.
Man United have now revealed that Malacia was able to take part in the warm-up part of Friday's training session alongside his teammates before continuing with an individual session.
"Manchester United left-back Tyrell Malacia is stepping up his comeback, following a spell on the sidelines, as he took part in the warm-up part of Friday's training session at Carrington," read a club statement.
💪 @TyrellMalaciia#MUFC pic.twitter.com/wAEJ1GflOM
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 20, 2024
Malacia takes huge step forward in recovery from knee injury
"The Netherlands international was welcomed back onto the grass by his teammates, who all applauded as he made his way through to the pitch at our base.
"Obviously, his colleagues were delighted as he joined in with the rondos before later continuing with an individual session."
Malacia was Erik ten Hag's first signing as Man United head coach, with the left-back arriving at Old Trafford from Feyenoord for a fee in the region of £13m.
A successful first season saw the 25-year-old make 39 appearances in all competitions, including 22 outings in the Premier League, but he missed the whole of the 2023-24 campaign through injury.
© Imago
When could Malacia be available for Man United?
A return for the full-back is not imminent, as he will need to first return to team training and then have a number of sessions before a possible comeback appearance is discussed.
Malacia is expected to be available for selection before the end of the year, but it could take another six weeks or so before he is in a position to potentially take to the field.
The defender proved himself to be a solid performer during his first season at Old Trafford, and his return to training is a huge boost for the Red Devils at a vital stage of the season.
Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount have also been training this week, with the pair expected to be in the squad for Saturday's Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
However, Leny Yoro, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw remain on the sidelines for the 20-time English champions, who put seven unanswered goals past Barnsley in the EFL Cup on Tuesday night.
Matt Law
