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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Isaac Johnson

Four things spotted in Manchester United training as Tyrell Malacia settles in with teammates

Manchester United have touched down in Thailand as their pre-season tour begins.

Erik ten Hag has taken 31 players to Bangkok in his first summer as United boss. The main talking point has been Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence, with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner not returning to training due to family reasons amid his transfer request.

The players were greeted by supporters at the Don Mueang International Airport. They were soon put through their paces in training ahead of their first pre-season friendly against Liverpool on Tuesday.

READ MORE: Manchester United have taken two players on pre-season tour who could be like new signings

They'll all be eager to impress their new manager after a desperate season last term. Here are the things we spotted during their first training session in Asia.

Tyrell Malacia in good spirits

It seems summer signing Tyrell Malacia is settling in well with his new teammates. The left-back was seen smiling on his way out to training.

Tyrell Malacia (Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

The ex-Feyenoord defender is Ten Hag’s first acquisition as United boss and he is expected to challenge Luke Shaw for a starting spot.

James Garner ready to go

After a terrific season with Nottingham Forest, James Garner may have ambitions of breaking into the United first team under Ten Hag.

James Garner (Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

His potential return to the City Ground looks to have been ruled out by Dean Henderson’s loan, as per Premier League rules. This may help him in making his mind up regarding his future plans, and he looked extremely focused when arriving at the training complex.

Bruno Fernandes shares joke with David de Gea after capturing dream shirt number

Bruno Fernandes has managed to get his hands on his favourite No.8 jersey this season after the exit of Juan Mata.

David de Gea and Bruno Fernandes (Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

He will be one player many United fans expect to lead the revival under Ten Hag. However, he doesn't seem fazed by that pressure, seemingly in a good mood during Saturday's session.

Axel Tuanzebe in dialogue with the top man

Defender Axel Tuanzebe had a difficult season last time out. He failed to earn regular game time on loan at Aston Villa during the first half of the campaign before playing just 10 minutes of Serie A football while at Napoli during the second half.

Erik ten Hag and Axel Tuanzebe (Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

He is considered way down the centre-half pecking order at the club and could fall even further down if a new defender is brought in. He’s been tipped to leave, but that does not mean he hasn’t struck up a decent rapport with Ten Hag.

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