ERIC BAILLY has ended speculation over his future by signing a new long-term contract with Manchester United.
The Ivorian, 27, who signed for United in 2016, has agreed a deal keeping him at Old Trafford until 2024, with the option of a further year.
SunSport revealed last month he was considering his future after being left out of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad for the Europa League win over AC Milan.
However, Bailly has now performed a dramatic U-turn by pledging his future to United after being given assurances about future playing time.
He told the club’s official website: “I’m very happy. This decision is something I didn’t have to think about.
“I love this club and I love playing for United. I’m happy and so are my family, everything is good.
“Now the moment with my injury has passed and I’m fit and feel good. A new contract is like a new challenge and I’m ready for this.
“The new contract shows the group has confidence in me, that is very important and why I made this decision to stay.
“It’s the dream to be here. Now it’s my fifth season and I hope to be here a long time.”
Bailly was signed by former United boss Jose Mourinho from Villarreal for £30million.
The centre-back impressed in his first season, playing 38 times in all competitions.
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But Bailly is yet to play more than 18 games in any of the four campaigns since, having suffered numerous injury blows including knee and ankle ligament damage.
However, Solskjaer has seen enough to give him the new deal.
The United boss added: “I am pleased Eric has signed this new contract, he is still learning and improving all the time.
“Eric has improved his robustness and he will continue to play a significant part in the squad.
“He possesses fantastic speed, timing of tackle and has that aggression which you need as a centre-back.
“He is a popular member of the squad and we look forward to continuing to work with him.”
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