Tyrell Malacia breaks silence after first-half incident during Man United win over Bodo/Glimt

Tyrell Malacia has sent a message to Manchester United supporters following a tough 45 minutes in Thursday’s 3-2 Europa League win over Bodo/Glimt.

The Dutchman started his first United game for 550 days on the night but was hooked at half-time after looking short of full fitness. The defender was easily outpaced by Philip Zinckernagel for the second goal, which had put the visitors 2-1 ahead, and looked tired after the quick transition.

Malacia was playing his first senior match in 18 months, having missed the whole of last season due to setbacks in his recovery from serious knee surgery in the summer of 2023. He consequently looked off the pace and was replaced by Diogo Dalot at the break.

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There has been no indication that the 25-year-old sustained an injury during the first half. The appearance nevertheless marked a poignant landmark for Malacia, who has had a tough time in trying to make a full recovery from his operation.

He took to social media after full-time to send a thankful message to his followers. Writing on Instagram, he said: “It's been a long road, but it was great to see you back out there, Ty.”

The post was liked by United teammates Christian Eriksen, Andre Onana and Matthijs de Ligt. Thursday’s match was Malacia’s 30th start in 40 appearances for United since his arrival in the summer of 2022.

Meanwhile, new full-back Noussair Mazraoui also sent a message to supporters after grabbing his second assist of the season when delivering the ball for Rasmus Hojlund’s sublime first goal to make it 2-2.

“European nights, we