Manchester United’s season so far has not gone to plan but Matthijs de Ligt has been a positive sign amids all the madness.
The Dutchman, who arrived from Bayern Munich this summer in a transfer not many thought was possible at the start of the window, has begun well at Old Trafford.
The loss against Liverpool was his first start but despite the 0-3 scoreline, he was one of the few bright sparks in the team.
His reading of the game and assertive defending has already cemented him as first-choice alongside Lisandro Martinez.
His latest comments will undoubtedly endear him even more to the Manchester United faithful…
It is widely known that Bayern fans didn’t want De Ligt sold, as they regarded him as the best centre-back at the club.
However, the boardroom didn’t share the view and he was almost pushed out of the door in a saga that was infuriating for their fans.
Ever the consummate professional, De Ligt took it on the chin and moved to Manchester United for an increased squad role.
Recently featuring in Netherlands’ 5-2 win over Bosnia, where Joshua Zirkzee created history, he spoke to the press and threw shade at Bundesliga.
He said he’s “happy” with his move to United because being in the Premier League brings more eyeballs, thereby making it easier for him to put himself in contention for the national team.
It is worth noting that De Ligt remained on the fringes of the national team during the Euros in the summer when he was a Bayern player.
De Ligt said: “I’m happy with my move to Manchester United. Also because I stay in the picture… the Premier League has more viewers, the Bundesliga lesser.”
There was a clear effort from Ineos this summer to buy players who really wanted to play for United, thereby addressing a “mercenary” problem at Old Trafford.
De Ligt clearly fit into that template, plus his age and pedigree in world football made him an ideal fit for the club.
There was disbelief when it emerged that Bayern were even contemplating letting De Ligt leave, such was the fan credit he had earned back in Munich.
At United, his partnership alongside Martinez should prosper as the two get used to playing alongside each other, and behind Manuel Ugarte.
As a model professional who has already almost won it all, this is a win-win move both, in terms of his dressing room presence as well as his on-pitch contributions.