Manchester United’s newly signed centre-back Matthijs de Ligt stated that his long-playing relationship with Noussair Mazraoui will be a significant boost to United’s backline, which was destroyed by injuries last season.
New Signings and Season Opener
The defenders signed contracts with Bayern Munich on Tuesday, making United their third team together, and they might both play in the squad’s season opener against Fulham on Friday at Old Trafford.
De Ligt Praises Mazraoui
“Let me tell you about Nous. He’s an incredible guy, a phenomenal player,” De Ligt stated in an interview with the team’s in-house media.
“I think it is a special relationship, and I’m really happy and glad that he’s also going to be here, and I think we can help each other a lot.”
Long-Standing Partnership
De Ligt, who signed a contract until 2029, and Mazraoui, who has a contract until 2028, have played over 100 games together for Bayern and Ajax.
They also know Erik ten Hag well, as they both played for the United manager when he was at Ajax.
Erik Ten Hag Influence
De Ligt said that Ten Hag have played a huge role in his development, reflecting on the coach who made him Ajax’s youngest ever captain at just 18 years old. He also added that Ten Hag gave him that incredible boost of confidence by making him captain.
“He made it clear from the beginning: ‘You are a role model for the team, and I want you to lead as the captain.’ The faith he showed in me at that moment, at that young age, was truly remarkable.”
Rebuilding United’s Defense
United’s backline has been largely rebuilt since last season, which is one of the reasons De Ligt joined the squad, he stated.
“I really like the project,” he told me. “It’s always nice to go somewhere and to feel that you’re part of a new project, to feel that you’re part of something new.”
Future Ambitions
I hope that I and the other players joining this summer can contribute significantly to Manchester United’s future and help the club reclaim its position at the top of the league.
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