Marseille unlikely to trigger Manchester United loanee Eric Bailly’s permanent option

Marseille are very unlikely to trigger the €7m permanent option for Manchester United loanee Eric Bailly (28), according to a report from L’Équipe. The Ivory Coast international has reportedly lost the faith of OM boss Igor Tudor following a run of unconvincing performances. Bailly was an unused substitute during Les Phocéens’ last two outings. Bailly’s last OM game was against PSG where he struggled against Kylian Mbappé, leaving him far too much space, at Tudor’s great displeasure. Bailly’s frequent injuries and his 7-game suspension following a high kick that let his opponent in intensive care did not help his case as his future with OM hangs in the balance.

Bailly’s loan deal to Marseille includes a permanent option that would be automatically triggered if the Ivory Coast was to play 19 Ligue 1 games with OM. But he’s only played nine and there are only 12 games remaining. Nevertheless, Marseille have no intention, as of now, of extending Bailly’s stay as they expected more from the Manchester United centre-back. The Ivory Coast international is tied to United until 2024, the Erik Ten Hag-led side will listen to offers for their centre-back deemed surplus to requirements.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval