Ivory Coast defender Eric Bailly tests positive for Covid-19

Manchester United defender Eric Bailly has tested positive for Covid-19. The centre-back was on international duty with Ivory Coast.

Manchester United head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed the news as the Ivorian footballer missed Premier League action.

Bailly missed United’s home game against Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday, as the Red Devils came from a goal down to clinch a 2 1 victory over their opponents.

Brighton broke the deadlock in the 13th minute thanks to a header by United former forward Danny Welbeck to put the Seagulls in front.

However, Man United bounced back in the second half with goals from Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood enough to seal three points,

Solkjaer explained that Bailly is yet to return to rejoin his teammates in England. He also stressed that the 26-year-old will not be available for team selection in the meantime.

After the team’s win against Brighton, the Norwegian stated on the club’s official site, “Unfortunately he won’t be with us for a little while.

“He’s been away with Ivory Coast and he tested positive with Covid and he’s not back in the country yet.”

Versatile defender Bailly has lacked lots of game time at Old Trafford having only made eight appearances in the domestic league.

Ivory Coast defender Eric Bailly tests positive for Covid-19. PHOTO: Irish Sun

United, who are second in the Premier League table and just completed their 10 games unbeaten run after winning on Sunday, are in talks with Bailly over a new deal at the club.

Reports suggest that Bailly could reject a contract extension on the other half of Manchester as he struggles for playing time.

Solkjaer, former United player has stuck with Harry Maguire – Victor Lindelof partnership at the back with the absence of Bailly and could make use of a similar partnership in their UEFA Europa League tie against Granada on Thursday.