Solskjaer confirms contract talks with Bailly
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has reported the club is speaking with Eric Bailly’s representatives about a new contract.
The Ivory Coast international joined the club from Villarreal during the summer of 2016 and in January 2020 his deal was extended, keeping him at Old Trafford until the end of 2021/22 at least.
An obvious talent and popular figure, Bailly has performed excellently this season and appears to have overcome the persistent injury problems that have plagued his career at United so far.
Eric made his 100th Reds appearance during Thursday night’s Europa League last-16 first leg against AC Milan at Old Trafford. That outing made him the 218th player to appear in a century of games and propelled him above CarlosTevez (99 games) in the all-time list.
During a press conference to preview this Sunday’s Premier League match against West Ham United, Solskjaer was quizzed on Bailly’s future and whether a new contract is in the works.
“Yes we are talking to Eric and Eric’s representatives,” confirmed Ole.
“He is keeping fitter for longer and you can see his performances as well and I have been very happy with him. His playing style has sometimes made him lose too many games because 100 games that is not enough for the period he has been here. He is getting more and more robust so yes he is one we are talking to.”
Bailly has become a mentor for new signing Amad since his fellow countryman joined the club in January and, as you would expect, Eric was delighted when his young team-mate scored a first goal on Thursday night.
The teenager replaced the injured Anthony Martial at half-time and made an instant impact, latching on to a delicious Bruno Fernandes pass to execute a backward header past the goalkeeper. In doing so, Amad became the fourth-youngest scorer in United’s European history.
“Happy to reach 100 appearances with the club, and I’m sure there will be many more to come. Congratulations also to @AmadDiallo19, it was only a matter of time!”
In response, Amad replied: “Big brother, love you.”