**”Go Back to Manchester United!”: PSV Eindhoven Legend Fumes at Tyrell Malacia Amid Club’s Woes**
PSV Eindhoven legend Willy van de Kerkhof has lashed out at Tyrell Malacia, telling the Dutch defender to “go back to Manchester United” amid the club’s recent struggles. The scathing criticism comes as PSV faces a turbulent period, with inconsistent performances threatening their dominance in the Eredivisie and their ambitions in European competitions.
Malacia, who joined Manchester United from Feyenoord in the summer of 2022, has been recovering from a long-term injury and has yet to feature for the Red Devils this season. However, recent reports suggested that PSV Eindhoven had been exploring the possibility of signing the 24-year-old defender on loan in the January transfer window to bolster their defensive options.
While the move ultimately did not materialize, Malacia’s name has remained in discussions around PSV’s struggles. Van de Kerkhof, a club legend who won multiple Eredivisie titles with PSV and was part of the Netherlands squad that reached the 1978 FIFA World Cup final, did not hold back in his assessment of Malacia’s potential role at the club.
### **PSV’s Defensive Issues Spark Outrage**
PSV, who have dominated Dutch football for much of the season, have recently suffered a dip in form, particularly in defense. After an impressive unbeaten run in the Eredivisie, a string of shaky performances has seen them leak crucial goals in both domestic and European competitions. Their defensive fragility has been exposed, leading to frustration among fans and club legends alike.
Van de Kerkhof, known for his outspoken nature, believes Malacia would not have been the right solution for PSV’s problems, instead arguing that the club needs more stability and leadership at the back.
“I don’t understand why we are even talking about Malacia,” Van de Kerkhof fumed in an interview with a Dutch media outlet. “We don’t need players who are trying to regain fitness or looking for game time. We need leaders, strong defenders who can command the backline. Malacia should go back to Manchester United if he isn’t ready to make a real impact here.”
### **Malacia’s Struggles at Manchester United**
Malacia arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 as one of Erik ten Hag’s first signings, expected to provide competition for Luke Shaw at left-back. He showed promise in his debut season, making 39 appearances across all competitions, but struggled for consistency at times. His aggressive style and attacking instincts made him a valuable option, but defensive lapses raised concerns.
Unfortunately, Malacia has been sidelined for the entire 2023-24 season due to a knee injury, and his absence has been felt as Manchester United have endured defensive struggles of their own. With injuries to Luke Shaw and other key defenders, United have often been forced to play makeshift backlines.
His prolonged absence has led to speculation about his future at the club. While Manchester United reportedly still view him as part of their long-term plans, some have questioned whether he can reclaim a starting role once he returns to full fitness. PSV, looking for reinforcements, saw him as a potential loan option, but the move never materialized.
### **PSV’s Season at a Crossroads**
PSV’s defensive woes have put them in a difficult position. While they remain strong contenders for the Eredivisie title, their recent performances have raised concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level. Their struggles in European competitions, where they have faced stiff competition, have only added to the frustration.
Van de Kerkhof’s comments reflect the growing impatience within the PSV fanbase. The club has been striving to reestablish itself as a dominant force in Dutch football and a competitive team in Europe. While manager Peter Bosz has implemented an attacking style that has seen the team score plenty of goals, defensive weaknesses have been their Achilles’ heel.
“The team is too fragile at the back,” Van de Kerkhof added. “We cannot afford to keep conceding easy goals, and bringing in a player who is not fully fit will not solve anything. We need experienced defenders who can come in and make an impact immediately.”
### **What’s Next for Malacia and PSV?**
For Malacia, the priority remains returning to full fitness and fighting for his place at Manchester United. While a loan move to PSV or another club could have helped him regain match sharpness, he will now have to wait for opportunities at Old Trafford. With United’s defensive injuries, he could find himself back in contention once he recovers.
As for PSV, they must find defensive solutions quickly if they want to maintain their grip on the Eredivisie and progress further in European competition. Whether that means exploring new signings in the summer or making tactical adjustments, one thing is clear: the club’s defensive struggles must be addressed.
While Van de Kerkhof’s comments may seem harsh, they reflect the high standards expected at PSV Eindhoven. For now, Malacia remains at Manchester United, but his future remains uncertain as both clubs navigate their respective challenges.
