Ten Hag stated that de Ligt has not yet reached top form: "He had a challenging preseason"
Manchester United's head coach, Erik ten Hag, addressed criticism directed at the team's defender, Matthijs de Ligt.
"I know Matthijs, and he possesses a strong character. I am confident that he will overcome the current difficulties and return to his previous level with the Netherlands national team. This is unrelated to his situation at the club. I am not worried about him, as I believe in his abilities and personal qualities – he will surely recover.
Furthermore, he had a tough preseason since he had limited playing time. The only match he started was against Liverpool. Due to the lack of match practice, he joined the Netherlands national team and has not yet reached optimal form and speed. But once that happens, you will see his true qualities and a completely different player," Ten Hag was quoted as saying by the Daily Mail.
On September 14, Manchester United defeated Southampton 3-0 in the fourth round match of the English Premier League (EPL). De Ligt scored his debut goal in this encounter.
Matthijs de Ligt moved to Manchester United last summer from Bayern, signing a contract until the summer of 2029.
