One of Manchester United’s most dependable but underappreciated players is back at Old Trafford, though the occasion feels more routine than remarkable.
The fixture arrives at a pivotal moment in the season for both sides, with matches coming thick and fast.
West Ham completed a double over Manchester United last season, winning 2-1 at home and then 2-0 away at Old Trafford.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who had been let go by United the previous summer, was especially proud on both occasions.
Since moving on from United, Wan-Bissaka has made his point quietly but effectively in those two meetings. Now, he’ll be looking to add another chapter to that record.
Remembering Wan-Bissaka’s impact on Manchester United
Across his five seasons at Old Trafford, Aaron Wan-Bissaka proved to be a valuable part of Manchester United’s defence.
The £50 million fee was hefty, but there was no doubting his reputation as one of the top defensive full-backs around. He wasn’t the fastest player going forward, but he rarely let anyone down when it came to defending.
But despite his ability to win back possession and protect the back line, questions persisted about his impact going forward.
His attacking output was limited, with just two goals in 190 appearances – and that eventually became a sticking point for a club looking for more from its full-backs.
Wan-Bissaka was still playing at a level high enough to stay at Old Trafford, but Ten Hag opted for Noussair Mazraoui instead. It wasn’t necessarily about performance; rather, the manager wanted a different profile in that position.
Since joining West Ham, Wan-Bissaka has continued to be reliable defensively. As he returns to face his former side once again, United will have to consider how best to manage his presence on the pitch – even if most of his contributions come away from the spotlight.
What Wan-Bissaka’s exit has meant for Manchester United
Noussair Mazraoui has generally been seen as a solid addition to Manchester United, offering good value for both his performance and price tag.
But from an attacking point of view, there have been questions. Wan-Bissaka actually ended up with more goals and assists in fewer appearances during his time at Old Trafford.
Mazraoui has spent quite a bit of time playing centre-back under Ruben Amorim, but even when he’s shifted out wide, he hasn’t managed to contribute much going forward.
It’s worth noting that Amorim’s system probably wouldn’t have suited Wan-Bissaka much either. The focus is on pushing wing-backs higher up the pitch, which doesn’t really play to his strengths.
The move away from United came at a good moment for him. Since then, the club has leaned into using more attack-minded options in that role.
Wan-Bissaka hasn’t had an easy time at West Ham either. Since joining, he’s played under Julen Lopetegui, Graham Potter, and now Nuno Espirito Santo – all within a short span.
After experiencing similar instability at Manchester United, Wan-Bissaka has learned not to let the changes rattle him.
The quieter life away from Old Trafford might actually suit him better anyway. He was never one who seemed to crave the spotlight that comes with being a Manchester United player.
This weekend gives him another chance to return to Old Trafford and make an impact against his former side once again.
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