Arne Slot Calls Out Erik Ten Hag’s Signing “Arrogant”

Malacia was a consistent presence in Slot’s team, but that didn’t shield him from a few pointed remarks from his boss. Slot said he admired Malacia as a “driving force” in his squad, especially when the team was trailing, yet maintained that he could be a bit too frivolous with possession and immature away from the pitch.

“When we’re behind he is typically the player to try and force the issue, or to ignite a spark with a run or a tackle,” Slot said. “[But] I do see him taunt opponents a bit too much.”

He added: “He almost shows too much of the ball, to get them to bite. At times, it’s too much. He looks a bit complacent, arrogant even, at times. I talk to him about that.”

Malacia’s career at United hasn’t been smooth sailing yet, encountering obstacles since his £13million move nearly two years prior. An array of injuries has impaired his progress, with the 24-year-old sitting out the entirety of the current season after going through a knee surgery last summer.

During the preceding season, he featured in 22 matches for United in the Premier League, though he only started in 14 of them with manager Erik ten Hag favouring Luke Shaw as his first choice left back. The United gaffer brought Malacia on board after seeing the young Dutch player’s exceptional performance during a match between Ajax and Feyenoord.

A video clip that rapidly spread online after Malacia’s signing was confirmed showed Ten Hag instructing his assistant Michael Reiziger to note down Malacia’s name, remarking: “That kid at left back is amazing”.