Tyrell Malacia joins FC Cincinnati after leaving Manchester United

Former Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia has signed with Major League Soccer club FC Cincinnati on a free transfer, ending his four-month search for a new team after leaving Old Trafford at the end of last season. Malacia, now 27, joined United in 2022 as Erik ten Hag’s first signing but made only 39 appearances in his debut campaign and missed the entire 2023/24 season through injury, totaling just 11 further appearances before his contract expired. He has signed a one-year deal with Cincinnati, with an option for an additional year, and the club’s General Manager Chris Albright praised his experience and defensive qualities. The nine-time Dutch international, who cited family illness and personal loss during his difficult spell at United, will hope to revive his career with the MLS side, which currently sits ninth in the Eastern Conference and faces Houston Dynamo this weekend