Ruben Amorim has reinstated Tyrell Malacia to his Manchester United squad as two young stars trained with the first team.
Manchester United are returning back to Old Trafford ahead of the October international break as they prepare to face Sunderland for the first time since April 2017.
Ruben Amorim’s start to the season has been poor, with United winning just two of their opening six Premier League fixtures and sitting 14th in the table, just one space above their 15th-placed finish last campaign.
In contrast, the Black Cats have had a stunning start on their return to the top flight of English football. Régis Le Bris’ side are currently fifth in the Premier League, sitting on 11 points after six games.
Following a recent 3-1 loss away to Brentford, Amorim is under increasing pressure to secure results and keep his job at United amid growing uncertainty among the fanbase.
Malacia returns to first-team duties
Last summer, Tyrell Malacia was part of a five-player group that was axed from Amorim’s first team after being deemed surplus to requirements. Although the other four, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Marcus Rashford, all found moves away, the Dutchman did not.
After being reintegrated with the U21s earlier this month, reports from Netherlands outlet VI claim that Malacia has now been reintegrated into the squad with “immediate effect” ahead of the fixture against Sunderland.
Meanwhile, right-back Diogo Dalot returned to duties last weekend and is once again fit for selection. However, centre-back Lisandro Martínez and right-back Noussair Mazraoui will not be available until after the international break.
Amad continues to be on compassionate leave after a bereavement in the family, with Amorim explaining last week that they have not given the Ivorian a specific return date and will allow him to rejoin the group once he feels ready to do so.
Internal pressure on Amorim starting to crack
Amid United’s poor start to the season, pressure is starting to grow on Amorim internally.
Despite reports suggesting that the club’s decision makers continue to retain faith in the 40-year-old, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that his job is no longer “100% safe” amid the poor results.
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While some have stressed that United has not yet started speaking or conducting formal approaches for replacements, rumours suggest that a shortlist of three managers has already been drawn up.
Two of those are current Premier League managers. Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is one such coach, while Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is also said to be liked by those at Old Trafford.
A third option is Gareth Southgate, with the former England boss having a strong relationship with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, although this option is considered less likely.
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