- 7 Nov 2024
Eric Bailly could leave Man Utd despite new contract
James Shearman
- Updated: 23 May 2023 08:47 CDT
- 5 min read
Eric Bailly has revealed that his new contract won’t stop him from leaving Manchester United if he can’t secure enough playing time at the club.
United announced last month that Bailly had signed a contract extension, running until 2024, which many thought had ended speculation on the Ivorian’s future.
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The centre-back has endured a difficult season at Old Trafford with numerous injury struggles so the new contract was a much-needed vote of confidence from manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
“I spoke to him and he told me he wanted me to stay,” Bailly said in a recent interview.
”The most important thing was not the renewal but the conversation we had: we sat down, we talked and he told me what he wanted from me and that he wanted me to continue.”
However, the 27-year-old has suggested that the new contract won’t prevent him from seeking a move if he fails to receive assurances of regular first-team football.
A test of his manager’s faith will come in the team selection for the Europa League final against Villareal on Wednesday night. Bailly will be competing with youngster Axel Tuanzebe for a place in the team as a result of Harry Maguire’s absence through injury.
Man Utd CB signing?
Despite the four centre-back options at the club, United are keen to strengthen the defence with a marquee signing to partner Harry Maguire.
And while Bailly is happy compete for a place in the lineup, he may find it increasingly difficult with the potential addition of Raphael Varane or Pau Torres.
“Competition is always good to improve,” Bailly told The Times. “I just say that I want to stay in case I get the chance to play. I don’t want to be a starter one game and a substitute for another five.
“If that happens I will have to look for another solution. The new contract is fine but if I don’t play I will be open to listen to other proposals.”
