Pranav Nair
Eric Bailly will call it quits if he does not receive regular play time at Manchester United
According to The Times (Subscription Required), Manchester United star Eric Bailly has opened up on the possibility of facing more competition for his place next season.
The Red Devils are in the market for a new defender and are eyeing Real Madrid star Raphael Varane among others. With skipper Harry Maguire an automatic choice, the competition to be his partner will be akin to open season. (h/t The Express)
While he is keen to test himself against challengers, Bailly is not ready to play second fiddle.
A competent defender in his own right, the Ivorian’s time at Old Trafford has been plagued by injuries. He recently penned a new long-term deal that will keep him at the club until 2024, with the option of a further year.
“Competition is always good to improve.”
Currently the third-choice defender behind Maguire and Victor Lindelof, Bailly is far from assured a starting position week in week out. He will be hoping for more opportunities to prove himself next season.
“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.”
“The new contract is fine but if I don’t play I will be open to listen to other proposals.”
Bailly admitted that he had a fruitful conversation with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before penning his new deal. However, it would appear that whether he plays or not will determine his future at the club.
At the very least, given his new contract, United hold the advantage if it comes to selling him for an acceptable fee.
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Bailly faces off against his former side Villarreal in the Europa League final later tonight. With Maguire most probably ruled out, he now has an opportunity to showcase just what he can do at the biggest stage.
