Manchester United have confirmed the departure of Eric Bailly, with the player signing for Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas.
The defender joined for £30m back in 2016, but managed only 113 appearances in all competitions during due to a myriad of injuries. Last season, Bailly was sent out on loan to Marseille, were he managed a seven-year best 23 outings in all competitions - 17 of those came in Ligue 1.
Now, Bailly has made a permanent move away from United, signing a one-year deal at Besiktas and following ex-teammate Fred in making a move to Turkey this summer.
A statement on Man Utd's website announcing the departure reads: "Eric Bailly has left Manchester United to join Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas on a permanent transfer.
"His opportunities in subsequent seasons were limited by injuries and competition for places alongside fellow central defenders such as Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo, and later Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane.
"Bailly’s last competitive appearance for United was in a 3-1 win over Burnley in December 2021, and he spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Ligue 1 side Marseille.
"He is the second player to join a Turkish Super Lig club this summer after Fred’s transfer to Fenerbahce last month, while goalkeeper Altay Bayindir moved in the other direction when he joined United from Fenerbahce last week.
"Everyone at United thanks Eric for his contribution while at the club and wishes him all the best for the future."
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This article was originally published on 90min as Eric Bailly leaves Man Utd on permanent deal.
