After joining Manchester United from Villarreal back in 2016 for £30m, Eric Bailly has had highs and lows at Old Trafford.
The agile centre half was meant to fill a void that's been present since Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand both left the club, but it hasn’t been straight forward for the Ivory Coast international.
After being plagued with injuries he has fallen down the pecking order and so far Bailly has only made 11 Premier League appearances this season, under new manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Recent reports have linked Bailly with a move away this summer, but the versatile defender is still only 24 years old and has time to turn around his United career.
If Bailly is to do so, he can take inspiration from Luke Shaw’s incredible comeback. The England left-back is now one of United’s most consistent and stand out performers however that hasn’t always been the story.
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Shaw was one of the most sought after young left backs in the world after joining United in 2014, but after a horrific leg break his dream move to Manchester soon turned into a Nightmare.
His confidence tumbled after a string of poor performances upon his return, which was miraculous in itself, and his weight was also scrutinised.
To make matters worse, Shaw reportedly had an ongoing feud with previous manager Mourinho and eventually Ashley Young, a right footed winger, converted to left back, took his place in United’s starting line-up
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Now, under Solskjaer, Shaw’s career has been rejuvenated and he is back to his best for the Red Devils, contributing in attack while also boasting solid defensive credentials.
If Shaw can make a return from such adversity, there’s no reason Bailly can’t turn around his own career.
The centre half is simply out of favour, and if he endeavours to be a success at one of the biggest clubs in the world he will need to replicate the fighting attitude that Luke Shaw has shown.
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