Manchester United have confirmed that Sergio Reguilon has returned to Tottenham Hotspur after having his loan spell at Old Trafford cut short.
Reguilon joined the Red Devils on deadline day last summer on an initial season-long loan deal, following long-term injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
The 27-year-old went on to make 12 appearances for Erik ten Hag's side across all competitions, including nine in the Premier League.
However, with Shaw now back from his long-term injury - albeit having missed the last two games with a separate problem - and Malacia making progress in his recovery, Man United have decided to send Reguilon back to Spurs.
The 20-time English champions have exercised a break clause in the initial agreement, also confirming that the reduced number of games in the second half of the season - following their exits from the Champions League and EFL Cup - contributed to their decision.
All the best, @Sergio_Regui 🤝
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 4, 2024
The defender's loan at United has come to an end, as he returns to Tottenham.#MUFC
"Sergio Reguilon is returning to his parent club Tottenham Hotspur after Manchester United activated a break clause in the loan agreement," read a statement from the club.
"The Spanish left-back joined on a temporary basis last August and made a positive contribution during the first half of the season.
"Sergio fulfilled the role he was brought in for: to provide cover for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia while both were out with long-term injuries.
"While Luke has missed the past two games with a minor injury, the England international is expected back soon. Tyrell, meanwhile, is getting closer to a return from his knee injury.
"The versatile Diogo Dalot can also provide further cover at left-back.
© Reuters
"With fewer games in the second half of the season and injured players returning, there will be less opportunity for Sergio to play. It was decided it was in the best interests of all parties for Reguilon to return to Spurs.
"The 27-year-old defender leaves United with our appreciation for his contribution and best wishes for the future."
Reguilon ended up on the winning side in just four of his 12 appearances for Man United, losing the other eight matches in which he featured.
Only seven of his loan outings came from the start of matches, though, with the most recent of those coming in the 3-0 defeat at the hands of Bournemouth on December 9.
The Spaniard will now return to Tottenham and could be in contention for Ange Postecoglou's squad to face Burnley in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
