Erik ten Hag has shown his support for Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt, insisting he will be “a different player” once he has improved his fitness levels.
De Ligt, a summer signing from Bayern Munich, was criticised during September’s international break while on duty for the Netherlands.
The 25-year-old was substituted at half-time in his side’s 2-2 Nations League draw against Germany, with manager Ronald Koeman stating that he is “in a period where all his mistakes are being punished.”
Speaking ahead of United’s Premier League trip to Southampton on Saturday, Ten Hag, who worked with De Ligt at Ajax, insists a lack of pre-season has not worked in favour of the centre-back.
“I know Matthijs and he’s a great personality, his character, he will overcome this and will bounce back in this situation for the Dutch squad,” Ten Hag said. “Definitely not his club situation. I’m not afraid for this situation, I know his qualities, I know his personality and I know he’ll fight back.
“The other thing is he had a very difficult pre-season because he didn’t play games. His only game from the start was last game against Liverpool, without this he goes and starts for the Dutch squad and he’s not in the rhythm yet or up to full speed. But when he is you will see his qualities and a different player.”
De Ligt joined United in a deal worth €45million (£38.5m, $49.5m), plus €5m (£4.3m, $5.5m) in add-ons.
He made his debut after coming on as a substitute in United’s 1-0 win against Fulham and has since featured in the club’s two defeats against Brighton & Hove Albion and Liverpool.
(Martin Rickett/PA Images via Getty Images)
