FC Cincinnati fills defensive gap with Malacia, Messi in its sights

FC Cincinnati has a strong need for a permanent left‑back after injuries have put pressure on the defence. Journalist Joost Blaauwhof of VI confirmed that the club reached an agreement on Thursday with the 27‑year‑old Tyrell Malacia, who will play in Major League Soccer and hopes to meet Lionel Messi in October.

Previous club and blocked transfer

Malacia finished last season his contract at Manchester United, where he served four seasons as a wing‑back. An injury spell forced him after a good start to make sporadic appearances. In the winter the British top club blocked a possible move to Istanbul Başakşehir.

The left‑back turned down offers from clubs at the bottom of La Liga, in Brazil and the Middle East. Instead, he signed on Thursday a contract with FC Cincinnati until mid‑2027, with an option for an additional year.

The Rotterdam native dreams of a comeback with the Dutch national team and sees his MLS mission as a springboard. A recent conversation with KNVB director Nigel de Jong has reignited the fire in him.

In October a major showdown awaits: Malacia will visit Lionel Messi's Inter Miami, a meeting that will attract a lot of attention both sporting and commercial.

To achieve his goal, Malacia must demonstrate that his body can endure long periods without interruption, so that a return to Europe remains realistic.