Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has been told he can elevate his game to another level by coach Ruben Amorim, despite already being a standout performer for the Red Devils this season.
From Ajax Prodigy to United's Rock
The Netherlands international, who joined United from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024, has become an indispensable part of the team's backline. De Ligt has been an ever-present force in the Premier League, playing every single minute of the campaign so far. His commanding performances have been a significant factor in the team's improved results.
This resurgence marks a return to the form that first made him a global talent. At Ajax, de Ligt captained the side to a memorable Champions League semi-final in 2019 when he was just 18 years old. However, subsequent moves to Juventus and Bayern Munich saw his progress stall, with injuries and struggles to meet high expectations hampering his development.
Amorim's Challenge: Regain That Ajax Confidence
Now 25 years old, de Ligt has found his footing at Old Trafford and, with the possible exception of new signing Bryan Mbeumo, has been United's player of the season. While his defensive contributions have drawn widespread praise, Amorim believes there is another gear for the centre-back to find.
Speaking to Stadium Astro, Amorim acknowledged de Ligt's strong displays but issued a specific challenge. 'He is doing really well. I think he can play so much better with the ball,' Amorim stated. 'He needs to regain that confidence. I remember seeing him playing for Ajax when he started his career.'
The coach elaborated, urging de Ligt to become a more influential figure in building play from the back. 'He needs to return a little bit back to that part of being confident to be that guy who demands to control the tempo of the game.'
Solid Defence, But Room for Growth
Amorim was quick to praise the aspects of de Ligt's game that are currently excelling. 'But the way he is defending, transmitting strength to the team, intensity to the team, it's something I'm really pleased with,' he said.
Despite this satisfaction, the message was clear: the defender's potential is even greater. 'But I think he can be so much better,' Amorim concluded, setting a high bar for the rest of the season.
United's next test comes on Monday night when they host Everton at Old Trafford. With Harry Maguire unavailable, de Ligt is certain to start again. His defensive partner, Lisandro Martinez, is also pushing for a return after recovering from a knee injury that has sidelined him since February.
