Tyrell Malacia makes competitive return

Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia returned to competitive action on Tuesday evening, playing 45 minutes for the club’s Under-21s.

The full-back, out since May 2023 due to a long-term injury, completed the first half of the EFL Trophy tie against Huddersfield Town before being substituted by Harry Amass as planned at halftime.

Despite Malacia's efforts, Travis Binnion’s young Reds were defeated 4-1 by the senior League One side in what was their final group-stage match of this season’s EFL Trophy.

Starting in his usual left-back position at John Smith’s Stadium, Malacia was vocally commanding in the defense. Backed by the dedicated United fans who traveled across the Pennines, he notably initiated a dangerous counter-attack from a defensive corner and celebrated Victor Musa’s equalizer with his teammates shortly before being substituted.

Though the young Reds leveled the score following Ben Wiles’s opener, Huddersfield scored three more goals in the second half to claim victory.

Malacia’s appearance in West Yorkshire is a significant milestone in his recovery, having last played for United in the final game of the 2022/23 Premier League season against Fulham. He resumed team training in September and has been steadily progressing in his rehabilitation at Carrington.

While the 25-year-old will be managed carefully as he works toward a first-team return, this match marks an important step forward after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Welcome back to the pitch, Ty!