Tyrell Malacia explains his Manchester United nickname

Manchester United summer signing Tyrell Malacia said his personality changes whenever he takes to the field.

Malacia, 22, became Erik ten Hag's first signing when he joined from Feyenoord for £14.6million earlier in the month, signing a contract until 2026 with the option to extend for a further year.

It didn't take long for the Dutch left-back to win over supporters either, with Malacia proving a popular figure for his positive attitude and industrious work rate on the pitch during the tour.

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United's new signing has integrated himself quickly in pre-season with his approachable personality and could often be seen smiling and laughing in media footage released by the club.

However, despite his smiley nature, Malacia has a reputation for being a no-nonsense footballer when it comes down to business, and he has earned the nickname 'The Pitbull' for his combative style of play.

When quizzed on the nickname by club media, the left-back said: "I've always been like this. I'm always smiling and, yeah, that's just me. But, when I'm on the pitch, I'm a different person. Yes, yes [I am able to turn it on and off when I am playing]."

Malacia is set to feature for United again this weekend in either their match against Atletico Madrid in Oslo, or against Rayo Vallecano at Old Trafford.

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