‘Thank you for everything’ - Departing Man Utd player sends heartfelt goodbye message after transfer

Eric Bailly sent a heartfelt goodbye to Manchester United’s supporters after he completed a move away from Old Trafford.

The defender spent seven years at Old Trafford but made just 113 appearances in that period. Bailly was essentially frozen out by United manager Erik ten Hag, who allowed the Ivory Coast international to join Marseille on loan last season.

This summer, Bailly wasn’t included in the club’s pre-season friendlies and also wasn’t involved in the opening four Premier League matches of the campaign. After failing to agree a deadline-day move away from the club last week, the 29-year-old’s future looked uncertain. But he completed a deal to join Besiktas on Tuesday, with the Turkish transfer window running until 15 September.

After seven years at United, Bailly posted a goodbye message via social media. “As I leave this club after many years of incredible memories, outstanding teammates, and trophies, I want to express my profound gratitude,” he wrote. “This chapter may be closing, but the friendships and memories will forever remain in my heart. The fans here are the real champions. Thank you for everything, forever United.”

As for United, when announcing the news they wrote on their website: “We wish Eric Bailly, who we believe will provide important services to our club, great success with our glorious jersey, and present it to the public with our respect.”

Bailly was Jose Mourinho’s first signing when he joined the club in 2016, but a mixture of injury and poor form prevented him playing regularly.