Jul 19, 2018; Glendale, AZ, USA; Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe (38) battles for the ball against Club America midfielder Brandon Garcia (29) during the second half of an international friendly soccer match at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

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Former Player Sues Manchester United for ‘Clinical Negligence’

Tuanzebe’s injury issues began with a hip problem sustained during the warm-up for United’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool in October 2019.

Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe has launched legal action against the Premier League club. The Congolese international has alleged “clinical negligence” related to medical advice he received during his time at Old Trafford. The 27-year-old had a career marred by injuries at United and now, the defender has lodged his claim at the High Court.

Tuanzebe left United in 2022 after his contract expired. According to Telegraph Sport, he is seeking damages over what he believes was poor medical treatment that impacted his playing career. Tuanzebe represented England at youth level and was once regarded as one of United’s brightest academy prospects.

🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Axel Tuanzebe is suing Manchester United for ‘clinical negligence’ due to medical advice they gave him.

(Source: @TeleFootball) pic.twitter.com/PvZRyrSGfD
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 14, 2025

Tuanzebe’s Injury-Ravaged Time at Manchester United

Tuanzebe also captained Manchester United at various age levels before making his senior debut in January 2017. However, injuries repeatedly disrupted his progress, restricting him to just 37 first-team appearances across six and a half years. His legal team has declined to comment on the specifics of the case.

Tuanzebe’s injury issues began with a hip problem sustained during the warm-up for United’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool in October 2019. Later that year, he suffered another setback in a Carabao Cup tie against Colchester United, which ruled him out for the remainder of the season. Further spells on the sidelines followed, including a foot injury and a lengthy absence during the 2022-23 campaign before a loan move to Stoke City.

After leaving United, Tuanzebe rebuilt his career at Ipswich Town, helping them earn promotion to the Premier League with over 40 appearances as a key figure at right-back. In an unfortunate twist, he also suffered a freak injury last October, requiring surgery after cutting his thumb during a household accident.

Despite the injury troubles, Tuanzebe’s time at Ipswich showed glimpses of the talent United had once hoped he would fulfil. He departed following Ipswich’s relegation last season and signed with Burnley last month ahead of their own return to the top flight.

Axel Tuanzebe

Manchester United

Premier League

Abhinav Goel

soccer

I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.