Tyrell Malacia’s derby day performance gets seal of approval from Bruno Fernandes

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Tyrell Malacia‘s most difficult moment since becoming a Manchester United player undoubtedly came against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium back in October.

But in yesterday’s clash at Old Trafford, United’s number 12 was brought off by Erik ten Hag for totally different reasons.

The former Feyenoord man, who was Ten Hag’s first United signing following his £13m move, was hauled off at half-time at the Etihad back in October with Pep Guardiola’s Citizens leading 4-0 and Phil Foden who Malacia was directly up against scoring two of the goals.

But during United’s 2-1 at the Theatre of Dreams, the 23-year-old undertook a robust and aggressive approach to nullify the threat Riyad Mahrez posed on City’s right-hand side.

Tyrell Malacia’s aggressive performance against Manchester City gets seal of approval from Bruno Fernandes

Malacia looked to get as tight as possible to the former Leicester City winger at every opportunity.

With Malacia not giving the Algerian any space to twist or turn, City’s number 26 frequently passed backwards or found himself being fouled by the Dutchman.

No player from either side made as many fouls as Malacia (4), as per WhoScored.

But the six-time Netherlands international, who didn’t play one single minute of the 2022 World Cup, escaped a booking and produced a tireless and dogged performance.

Malacia finished the match with three tackles, two interceptions and five clearances before being replaced by Lisandro Martinez in injury time.

After being hooked at half-time at the Etihad, Malacia didn’t start a Premier League game until November with him filling in at right-back in place of the suspended Diogo Dalot.

Since the domestic season resumed, Malacia has started six of United’s games and the left-back is benefitting from Ten Hag deploying Luke Shaw at centre-back.

One man who loved Malacia’s performance in his second Manchester derby was Bruno Fernandes.

United’s number eight commented on Malacia’s Instagram post following yesterday’s win: “Just go and smash them all.”

Malacia celebrated passionately with Ten Hag after the victory against our fierce rivals and following his difficult afternoon at the Etihad, Malacia showed great character to step up to the challenge Mahrez posed.