Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered another masterful performance against his former club this week, forcing Manchester United to a 1-1 draw and reigniting debate over the decision to sell him.
The Spider Weaves His Web at Old Trafford
The 28-year-old defender, nicknamed 'The Spider' for his exceptional tackling, was arguably the standout player on the pitch during Thursday's Premier League clash. Facing the team that sold him to West Ham United for just £15million in 2024, Wan-Bissaka was a defensive colossus.
His statistics were staggering, making 12 defensive contributions and winning 11 duels as he repeatedly snuffed out United attacks. He also provided a significant threat going forward for the Hammers, underlining his all-round development since leaving Old Trafford.
History of Haunting His Old Club
This was not an isolated incident. Prior to this latest encounter, the DR Congo international boasted a 100 per cent winning record against Manchester United whilst wearing a West Ham shirt. His consistent ability to frustrate his former employers has turned his cut-price departure into a recurring narrative of regret for the Red Devils.
The sale, sanctioned by manager Erik ten Hag, saw United recoup only a third of the £45m fee they paid Crystal Palace to sign him in the summer of 2019. His ascendant form in East London stands in stark contrast to the struggles United have occasionally faced in the right-back position this season.
Frustrated Teammates' Prophetic Praise
Perhaps most tellingly, past revelations from within the United camp now carry significant weight. Club icon Darren Fletcher once disclosed that Wan-Bissaka's own teammates were left exasperated by his defensive prowess during training sessions.
"I was talking to some Manchester United players, and they were saying that no player has managed to pass Wan-Bissaka in training this season," Fletcher told Norway's TV2. "It's as if he refuses to let them pass. He has to get better technically, but he is a fantastic full-back."
Fletcher added that once the defender improved technically, he would "take his game to a new level." This prophecy appears to have been fulfilled at the London Stadium, highlighting a talent that some at United believed was worth persevering with.
Amorim's Current Defensive Dilemma
The timing of Wan-Bissaka's latest dominant display is particularly poignant for current United boss Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach has had to improvise at right-back this term, converting winger Amad Diallo into the role—a move that has exposed defensive vulnerabilities.
While Noussair Mazraoui has impressed, his campaign has been disrupted by injuries. Furthermore, the Moroccan is now set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations, leaving a gap in the squad that a player of Wan-Bissaka's specific skill set could have filled.
While hindsight always offers perfect vision, and Wan-Bissaka did experience dips in form during his United tenure, his post-departure success poses a difficult question. His recent performances, especially against the club that let him go, suggest United may have discarded a defensive gem just as he was entering his prime.
