Eric Bailly signs new Manchester United deal

Manchester United announced that oft-injured defender Eric Bailly has signed a new contract this afternoon keeping him at Old Trafford until June 2024.

“This decision is something I didn’t have to think about, I love this club and I love playing for Manchester United. I’m happy and so are my family, everything is good. Now the moment with my injury has passed and I’m fit and feel good, and that’s it. A new contract is like a new challenge and I’m ready for this.”

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer added:

“I am pleased that Eric has signed this new contract. He is still learning and improving all of the time under the coaches here,” Solskjaer said.

“Eric has improved his robustness since my time as manager and he will continue to play a significant part in the squad.

“He possesses fantastic speed, timing of tackle and has that aggression which, of course, you need as a centre-back. He is a popular member of the squad and we look forward to continuing to work with him going forward.”

Bailly, a £30 million signing from Villarreal in 2016, has just 37 Premier League appearances since the start of the 2017-18 season (including only 15 appearances this season), remains optimistic about this year's Europa tournament and final remaining matches this season.

“I hope I can be ready and I don’t get any injuries and to be strong and finish the season well. I hope to win the Europa League this season. We will have more challenges next season - hopefully the Champions League - and, for me, my dream is to win the Premier League, that’s my big dream.”

The Ivory Coast international’s contract will run until June 2024, with the option of a further year.