Jose Mourinho has told Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag how to handle Eric Bailly

For everything that Eric Bailly apparently lacks to be an elite centre-back, two qualities which he brings to the table for Manchester United — personality and individuality — should not be overlooked as Erik ten Hag continues to shape the squad in his own image this summer window.

A dismal campaign at Old Trafford last time out sunk morale to new lows. Ten Hag and his vibrant start as United manager hints towards a brighter future, though, and there are several factors to that upturn.

Jadon Sancho has been a shining light during two dazzling pre-season outings, while several promising youngsters have also caught the eye. Others at a crossroads in their United career — including Bailly and a rejuvenated Anthony Martial — could prompt Ten Hag into an immediate U-turn on their futures.

READ MORE: Martinez could prompt Bailly switch

Six years after starting his United career, Bailly was seemingly heading for the exit this summer and the impending signing of Lisandro Martinez complicates things further. However, during his impressive outings on two continents in pre-season so far, the Ivorian has given Ten Hag some familiar for thought.

"He is a team boy, he is a great boy. He is an honest man, always ready to give everything for the team. That is why we have him, why we still have him and why he is going to stay. Football teams need people like him, people where the club is more important than anything else."

Bailly was the first signing made by Jose Mourinho in 2016 and, as such, the former United manager was naturally a champion for him throughout his time in the Old Trafford hot-seat. But those above comments, made during the 2018 tour, went overlooked by successors Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick as