Nigel de Jong supports Malacia's MLS choice for a Netherlands comeback
Contract until mid‑2027 with option
The contract runs until mid‑2027 and contains a clause that makes an extra year possible. With this, Cincinnati gets a long‑term reinforcement on the left wing. The agreement was concluded after Malacia was already spotted on the training field in Ohio on Wednesday.
Malacia also had offers from clubs in Spain, Brazil and the Middle East, but deliberately chose Major League Soccer. The decision shows his preference for a competition where he can play regularly. He hopes to prove his form with this for a possible return to Europe.
The Dutch international wants to show that he can play multiple duels in a row. A consistent run of playing minutes would make a return to Europe feasible. In addition, a place in the Oranje remains a clear goal for the nine‑time international.
Malacia recently spoke with technical director Nigel de Jong, who according to Malacia has ‘lit a fire’. The discussion focused on his national team ambitions. The support of the former midfielder is seen as motivation for the coming seasons.
His last international for the Oranje was in June 2023, when the team lost the Nations League semi‑final to Croatia (2‑4). In 2022 Malacia made the move from Feyenoord to Manchester United for €15 million, but injury problems hampered his breakthrough and his contract was not renewed last summer.