A Manchester United player who has rarely put a foot wrong but also struggled to make a lasting impact is now on course to leave Old Trafford for Galatasaray in 2026, according to fresh reports.

The Dutch left-back, Tyrell Malacia, has endured a difficult spell in Manchester, becoming one of several players sidelined as the club reshaped its squad under Ruben Amorim and Christopher Vivell.

Despite reported interest from Elche and clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia last summer, the 26-year-old stayed put — though that now looks to be changing.

Forgotten Man at Old Trafford

Malacia joined Manchester United from Feyenoord with promise, offering defensive energy and reliability down the flank. However, injuries, tactical changes, and the emergence of other full-back options saw him gradually fall out of favour.

He was even dropped from first-team training during the summer and made to train with the Under-21s.

Although he has since been reintegrated into senior sessions, there is no indication he will feature again competitively for United.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the player’s fate earlier in the week, stating:

“Tyrell Malacia, despite returning and training again with the first team of Man Utd, despite a crazy window where he had several opportunities [to leave]… he is not going to sign a new contract at Man Utd. He will leave the club, for sure, 100 per cent, in 2026.”

Galatasaray Leading the Race For Tyrell Malacia

According to a report from the Daily Star, Turkish champions Galatasaray are in pole position to sign Malacia when his contract expires next summer.

The Istanbul giants are said to be “confident of luring him” and see the Netherlands international as a key addition for their title defence and European campaign.

For Malacia, a move to Turkey could reignite his career and offer regular first-team football at a club known for competing at the highest level domestically and in Europe.

Dignified Departure on the Horizon

While his time at Old Trafford may not have unfolded as planned, Malacia can hold his head high.

He has handled his demotion with professionalism, continued to train diligently, and avoided controversy — qualities appreciated by staff behind the scenes.

His expected move to Galatasaray would mark a fresh start and a chance to rediscover the form that once made him one of Europe’s most promising young full-backs.

As it stands, all signs point to a respectful farewell from Manchester United in 2026 — and a new chapter in Istanbul.