Aheed Abrar
Aston Villa turned down chance to sign Eric Bailly from Manchester United before moving to Olympique Marseille
A move for Manchester United defender Eric Bailly was turned down by Aston Villa before the Ivory Coast international moved to Olympique Marseille, according to The Athletic (Subscription Required) [h/t Manchester Evening News].
With the Claret and Blue rejecting Bailly’s services, the 28-year-old instead completed a move to France. Marseille have signed the centre-back on loan. However, the Ligue 1 side have an obligation to buy him if certain conditions are met.
Bailly has gone down the pecking order at United over the years. The Ivorian made his way to Old Trafford in 2016 from Villarreal. His debut season under Jose Mourinho was impressive. However, injuries have hampered his career since then.
United have added reinforcements to the backline season after season. Victor Lindelof joined the Red Devils from SL Benfica in the summer of 2017. The Sweden international has since grown in influence within the squad.
The Manchester-based club then spent big money to sign Harry Maguire from Leicester City in 2019. The England international has now become the captain of the side.
Raphael Varane was also bought from Real Madrid last summer. The World Cup winner is a quality player. The France international suffered a few niggles in the previous campaign but has been solid whenever he has featured.
The arrival of Erik ten Hag saw another centre-back come through the doors. Lisandro Martinez signed for United from Ajax. And the Argentine has slotted straight into the Dutch manager’s XI.
Over the last few games, Ten Hag has opted to play with Varane and Martinez in defence. Maguire has had to settle for a place on the bench.
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Considering the strength in depth we have in the centre-back spot, it was wise for Bailly to find a place where he would get more opportunities to play.
