Former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho keen on Eric Bailly reunion at AS Roma
According to Il Tempo States (h/t Manchester Evening News), Jose Mourinho is keeping tabs on Manchester United star Eric Bailly.
The former United boss was unveiled as AS Roma boss earlier this week. He faces a challenge in the Italian capital as the club looks to re-establish itself as one of the premier clubs in Serie A.
Bailly was one of Mourinho’s first signings while at United. A physically dominant player on his day, the 27-year-old has struggled with injuries at Old Trafford. He made just 106 appearances for the club, missing 99 games during the same time due to injuries. (h/t Transfermarkt)
The Ivorian, who recently penned a new deal, has not ruled out an exit if he is not guaranteed more game time. With Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof ahead of him, he is at best the third-choice centre-back at United.
The Red Devils are also in the market for a new defender and this could push Bailly further down the pecking order. A move to Roma could be just the fresh start he needs to rebuild his career. It can also be argued that the Italian league’s slower and less intense game should suit him fine.
Despite Mourinho parting ways with United in 2018, Bailly and he have been in touch. The player admits to having contacted the Portuguese tactician both after his exit from Tottenham and after taking over at Roma. Whether it will eventually end with them rekindling the partnership in Italy remains to be seen.
Bailly could very well replace former United star Chris Smalling at the Wanda Metropolitano. The 31-year-old, who has been at the club for two years, is now open to a return to England. Whether securing Bailly is a priority or a contingency plan for Smalling’s departure remains to be seen.
Mourinho could also face competition from Villarreal for the Ivorian’s signature. United are keeping tabs on Pau Torres and it has been suggested that Bailly could be offered in part exchange for the Spaniard. (h/t Manchester Evening News)
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The Italian top-flight has emerged as a second chance saloon for struggling United stars the last few years. The likes of Romelu Lukaku, Alex Sanchez, Matteo Darmian, Chris Smalling, Diogo Dalot and Ashley Young have all sought redemption following a difficult time at Old Trafford.
Whether Bailly will join that list remains to be seen.
