FORMER Manchester United star Eric Bailly has completed a sensational return to Villarreal just ONE day after having his Besiktas contract terminated.
Bailly, 29, has penned an 18-month deal with his former Spanish side following a controversial Turkey exit.
GettyEric Bailly has rejoined Villarreal one day after his Besiktas deal was axed[/caption]
And he could be thrust into the starting XI for Tuesday’s tough trip to LaLiga rivals Valencia.
Bailly previously spent time at Villarreal between January 2015 and June 2016 before departing for United.
The Red Devils paid £30million to make Bailly one of the first signings of the Jose Mourinho era.
But his time at Old Trafford was blighted by injury.
And the Ivorian made just 70 Premier League appearances in six years.
Bailly will now look to rebuild his playing career in familiar territory.
Villarreal sit 13th after winning just five matches this term.
And boss Marcelino will be hoping his new man can make an immediate impact.
FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
Getty Images – GettyBailly previously spent 18 months at Villarreal before joining Man United in June 2016[/caption]
GettyBailly managed just 70 league appearances in six years at Old Trafford[/caption]
Bailly will certainly be hoping things don’t pan out like they did at former club Besiktas.
The Turks landed him on a free transfer last summer following a miserable loan spell at Marseille.
Yet Bailly could only muster eight appearances in all competitions before his contract was terminated on Friday.
The defender had been one of five players banished by the club due to their “poor performances” and “incompatibilities within the team.”
Bailly’s agent said the treatment unfair due to her client’s injury issues.
Rafaela Pimenta said: “We are shocked and it took us by surprise.
“We are preparing our reaction since we know Eric has done nothing wrong.
“The player’s rights are being violated and we will make sure to protect him.”
MAN UTD NEWS LIVE: Stay up to date with all the latest transfer news from Old Trafford