Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has expressed confidence in defender Matthijs de Ligt’s imminent return to top form. Speaking about the Dutch centre-back, ten Hag acknowledged that de Ligt had a challenging pre-season, largely due to limited playing time.
“He had a very difficult pre-season because he didn’t play,” ten Hag stated. “His only start was the last game against Liverpool.”
The manager emphasised that de Ligt is not yet in full rhythm but assured fans that once the player reaches peak condition, his quality will become evident. “He’s not in a rhythm yet, but once he’s up to full speed, you will see a different quality,” ten Hag added.
De Ligt, 24, joined Manchester United from Juventus, where he had established himself as a robust and intelligent defender. Known for his strong aerial ability and tactical awareness, de Ligt is expected to be a key figure in United’s defensive line once he regains full fitness.
This statement comes amid a series of comments from ten Hag, who has recently stressed the importance of winning and maintaining high standards at Manchester United.