Eric Bailly has left Manchester United to a join Turkish Super Lig giants Besiktas on a permanent transfer.
The 29-year-old Ivory Coast international has not been part of manager Erik ten Hag’s plans and spent last season on loan at Marseille.
He was the first signing of Jose Mourinho in 2016 when he joined from Villarreal and went on to play 113 times for the Red Devils, winning the Community Shield, EFL Cup and Europa League, all in his first season at the club.
Bailly’s seven years at Old Trafford were severely hindered by injuries with his last appearance for the club occurring in December 2021.
Bailly’s contract with United was going to run out at the end of the season but they have been able to give him a new life permanently in Turkey.
“Eric Bailly has left Manchester United to join Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas on a permanent transfer,” read a statement on the club website.
“Everyone at United thanks Eric for his contribution while at the club and wishes him all the best for the future.”
Besiktas also confirmed the transfer with their statement reading:
“Our club has reached an agreement with Manchester United for the final transfer of Ivorian defender Eric Bailly.
“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.”
Welcome to Beşiktaş, Eric Bailly! pic.twitter.com/XZwcmDpfzt
— The Black Eagles (@BesiktasEnglish) September 4, 2023
Bailly is the second Manchester United player to move to the Turkish Super Lig this season after Brazilian midfielder Fred joined Besiktas’ rivals Fenerbahce. The Red Devils also signed Fenerbahce goalkeeper Altay Bayindir as a replacement for Dean Henderson who joined Crystal Palace in a permanent transfer.
