Manchester United full-back Tyrell Malacia has praised his Netherlands teammate Cody Gakpo’s ability, amid rumours linking him to United.
Malacia joined United in the summer for £12.9m as Erik ten Hag’s first signing after he impressed at Feyenoord last season, despite starting four of the first six league games he lost his place to Luke Shaw but now is potentially playing an agent role in Qatar.
The 23-year-old lauded his Dutch teammate Gakpo who has become one of the standout performers this season with 13 goals and 17 assists in all competitions for PSV Eindhoven being followed up by three goals in four World Cup games.
Unsurprisingly it’s led to fresh rumours of a move to Old Trafford after previous attempts in the summer broke down, United look set to renew their interest in January with him receiving huge acclaim from Malacia.
“Gakpo’s good enough for the top, there’s no doubt,” Malacia said.
TIF Thoughts on Malacia’s comments…
Gakpo’s been nothing short of sensational with the stats to back up the left-back’s claim, he’s in the top 1% for goals and assists for wingers outside the top five European leagues with 0.58 and 0.61 per 90 respectively, via FBref.
His creation stats are incredible too with him in the top 5% for shot-creating actions and progressive passes received, also in the top 2% for touches in the attacking penalty area show he’s more than just a player with an eye for goal.
With Cristiano Ronaldo having left Old Trafford there are big shoes to fill at United but the Dutchman’s performances are worthy of being given that opportunity.