Eric Bailly has criticised Manchester United by claiming the club favoured English players during his time at Old Trafford.
The Ivorian defender spent six years in Manchester before a summer loan switch to Marseille, having largely played second fiddle to Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof while also battling injuries.
United have, in Bailly’s view, “weakened” their own team due to a preference for homegrown talent with the 28-year-old hopeful that Erik ten Hag will take a different approach.
Bailly told L’Equipe: “The club should avoid favouring English players and give everyone a chance.
“[They should] encourage competition in the dressing room, not just look out for some. I've always had the feeling that the national player was prioritised.
“That doesn't happen at Chelsea or other big Premier League clubs. Some people take it for granted that they are going to start, and that weakens the team.
“Luckily, Ten Hag has a lot of character and I hope he can change that dynamic.”
