Eric Bailly has left Manchester United to join Besiktas in the Turkish Super Lig marking the end of his tenure at the English Premier League.
The Ivory Coast international made a total of 113 appearances for the English side since his arrival from Villarreal in 2016.
His time at the club included several memorable moments and achievements. The 29-year-old was the first signing of former United manager Jose Mourinho, and he had an impressive start with the club, winning the Community Shield on his debut in a 2-1 victory against Leicester City at Wembley.
He was even named the Player of the Match in that game. Later in the same season, he played a crucial role in United’s EFL Cup victory, where they defeated Southampton 3-2 at Wembley.
One of his notable contributions was during the 2016/17 Europa League campaign, where United emerged victorious, although Bailly missed the final against Ajax in Stockholm due to suspension.
He received praise from UEFA and was included in the Europa League Team of the Season for his dominant defensive play.
Bailly managed to score one goal for Manchester United in a 4-0 away win against Swansea City in August 2017.
However, his subsequent seasons at the club were marred by injuries and competition for places in the central defence, with players like Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, and later Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Raphael Varane.
His last competitive appearance for Manchester United was in a 3-1 win over Burnley in December 2021, after which he spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Ligue 1 side Marseille.
Bailly’s departure follows Fred’s transfer to Fenerbahce and goalkeeper Altay Bayindir’s move to Manchester United from Fenerbahce in the summer transfer window.