Manchester United have been without star center-back Eric Bailly since the 1-0 defeat at Chelsea in November.
Eric Bailly’s injury didn’t appear too serious at the time, however, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has labeled the ankle injury as a ‘serious’ problem following the 1-0 win over Bournemouth.
"“I think his (Eric Bailly) injury is serious,” Mourinho said. “…If the conservative treatment is not resulting, probably he will have a surgery procedure but let’s wait a little bit more.”"
The Ivorian has been fantastic in the heart of defense since he joined the club summer 2016. However, frequent injuries have always prevented him from reaching the next level.
Many United fans were looking for Bailly to lead the back-line this season. And not many ever thought that surgery would be an option after his latest knock. Surgery of any extent is always serious. It could be a long time before we see imposing defender back on the pitch.
However, Mourinho still holds faith that there could be alternatives to surgery.
"“I don’t want to be so pessimistic,” added Mourinho. “I want to leave it with a doctor.”"
Thankfully for the club, the oft-injured defenders of Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, and Marcos Rojo are all fully fit. They have all been in great form, so Mou isn’t panicking just yet.
"“During the whole season, we’ve had problems with central defenders but because the number is four or five, we manage always to have [players available] and Chris Smalling is playing amazingly well for seven or eight matches in a row maybe, so we are fine.”"
Mourinho has been flexible with his defensive formations this year. He’s studied the matchups and resorted to a back three with two wing backs while also sticking to the tradition four-at-the-back formation.
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United for the time being seem to be fine defensively. But should the club look to make a push in the Champions League they will sorely miss Bailly.
The 23-year old is United’s strongest, fastest, and most talented center back hands down. He is a reliable rock in the back line.
Should Bailly have surgery and miss an extended period of time, Mourinho does have options to help spread the defensive duties. Daley Blind can fill in at center-back while youngster Axel Tuanzebe can also play there.
Next: Manchester United: Who’s in and who’s out in January transfer window
Manchester United should be fine against most Premier League teams without its star defender. However, against the elite of England and Europe, playing without Bailly is a huge miss.