Manchester United have signed one of Europe’s most promising defenders, Dutchman Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of around £40 million. Red Devil Threads wants to be the ones to tell you all you need to know about the Dutch defender.
Background
Matthijs de Ligt was born in a small town named Leiderdorp situated between Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands. De Ligt grew up playing football for his local club in Abcoude. He joined Ajax’s youth academy when he was nine years old. De Ligt has been in a relationship with Dutch model Annekee Molenaar and the couple got married in June 2024.
Matthijs de Ligt Football Career
Matthijs de Ligt’s football journey began at the world-famous Ajax academy, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He eventually became the club’s youngest-ever captain at just 18 years old. De Ligt was a key part of the Ajax team that won the Eredivisie title in 2019 under United manager Erik Ten Hag. That same season, Ajax reached the Champions League semi-finals but narrowly lost to Tottenham.
After his success at Ajax, De Ligt made a high-profile move to Juventus in 2019. At Juventus, he further honed his skills, learning from seasoned defenders like Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci. His time in Italy was marked by solid performances, scoring 8 goals in 87 appearances. However, in 2022, he sought a new challenge and joined Bayern Munich. Following a reported fallout with Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, De Ligt spent much of the 2023/2024 season on the bench, frustrating many of the Bavarian club’s fans.
Matthijs de Ligt’s Playing Style
Matthijs de Ligt is more than just a traditional center half. He’s a well-rounded defender with versatile skills, making him crucial at both ends of the pitch. Known for his aerial prowess, De Ligt is a dominant force during set pieces, both in defense and attack. He’s capable of scoring goals and disrupting counterattacks with his physical strength and ability to win one-on-one duels. Predominantly right-footed, de Ligt excels at creating passing angles, which contributes to smooth and calm build-up play.
His composure on the ball and ability to start attacks with precise passing make him essential in organising the defence. Erik ten Hag will be hoping De Ligt becomes an invaluable asset as United looks to strengthen their backline.
Where Will Matthijs de Ligt Fit In
Erik Ten Hag will look for de Ligt to build a strong partnership with Lisandro Martínez at centre half. The Argentine, a left-footed defender, has secured his spot at left centre half, barring any more injuries. Ten Hag has always wanted a right-sided centre half to play alongside the Copa America winner in the spine of United’s defence.
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