Tyrell Malacia: Manchester United New Boy Reveals Reason Behind 'Pitbull' Nickname

Tyrell Malacia is settling into life at Manchester United and has detailed his Jekyll and Hyde approach which has given him his nickname.

Off the pitch, the 22-year-old has been a joy, his constant good mood and smiles look like they'd be infectious in the camp.

However, on it we've seen an aggressive and promising full-back, who will likely challenge Luke Shaw at United throughout the next season.

Being known as 'the Pitbull' from his time at Feyenoord is an interesting dynamic for the player who is very different when he's not playing.

But his tenacious nature when he touches the pitch makes it rather suitable.

When asked by club media about his personality and nickname, Malacia detailed: "I've always been like this. I'm always smiling and, yeah, that's just me. 

"But, when I'm on the pitch, I'm a different person.

"Yes, yes [I am able to turn it on and off when I am playing]."

Following pre-season, it seems clear that it will be the Dutch defender fighting Shaw for the position on the left side of defence.

Alex Telles has been used as a utilised player, with stints at centre-back and centre-midfield, showing that he will likely not be needed next term.

Meanwhile Brandon Williams was left out of the touring squad with an injury. His ability to play on both the left and right could be of use as squad member, but it's unlikely he'd rack up any significant amount of minutes.

Yet, it is unlikely that the English full-back is prepared for this role after playing a season on loan in the Premier League with Norwich last season.

Reports have said there is a £15 million potential deal to be done with Brighton for the player if Marc Cucurella is sold to Manchester City. That could be an option United take with their defender.

Alamy

Erik ten Hag has specific and high demands of his full-backs and as we've seen through pre-season he's asked a unique role of them.

Diogo Dalot has excelled in the 'inverted' role, where the defender tucks into the midfield when United are in possession, this has aided Jadon Sancho on the right too.

When he's played, Malacia has also looked comfortable in this role and helping the team go forward, but has also shown his defensive ability.

“I spoke with him a lot and we had some good conversations about football, about myself and about him — how he sees me,” Malacia explained when asked about Ten Hag in a recent interview. “That was also a big important thing for me to join the club.”

When queried on the inverted role that the full-backs have operated in, he added: “That’s what the coach wanted from me.

“At my former club under my former coach I play the same style, for me it’s easier to get in this system.”