Here’s why Eric Bailly hasn’t been starting for Manchester United under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Although fans may be disappointed in Eric Bailly’s lack of playing time at Manchester United, there’s an obvious reason why Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reluctant to start him.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has improved Manchester United in more than one way since taking over as caretaker manager back in December.

Yes, United have been scoring more goals than they had been under Jose Mourinho – but they’ve also been conceding far fewer as well.

Solskjaer’s men have kept seven clean sheets in just 15 games in all competitions so far and have only conceded 10 goals in total.

This is in large part thanks to the remarkable improvement of centre-back Victor Lindelof, who has been a rock at the back over this period.

Regardless of whether the Sweden international is partnered with Phil Jones or Chris Smalling, United have looked defensively solid for a change.

However, one centre-back who hasn’t partnered with Lindelof that often under Solskjaer is fan-favourite Eric Bailly.

And the reason is a simple one – the Ivory Coast international hasn’t learned to calm down yet.

Indeed, Bailly has a reputation for being rash and clumsy at times – and United have paid the price for it.

Earlier in the season, the 24-year-old was dropped after an abysmal performance in the 3-2 loss to Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League.

Although that defeat was under Mourinho, Bailly has shown signs that he hasn’t learnt from his past mistakes in the few opportunities that have been handed to him by Solskjaer.

He was shown the red card in the 4-1 win against Bournemouth in December after an unnecessary and dangerous challenge on the halfway line and was suspended for two games.

If the defender wants to become a long-term centre-back partner for Lindelof, he needs to remove this side from his game.

Once Bailly proves he can keep a cool head for 90 minutes, United could have a Rio Ferdinand/Nemanja Vidic-esque partnership on their hands.

Do you agree that Eric Bailly is not good enough to start alongside Victor Lindelof? Or is he still a better option than either Chris Smalling or Phil Jones? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!