Former Man United Coach Rene Meulensteen Expresses Concerns Over Matthijs De Ligt
- Think Football Ideas
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
Meulensteen Voices Doubts Over De Ligt’s Consistency at Manchester United
Rene Meulensteen, a trusted member of Sir Alex Ferguson’s staff during Manchester United’s golden years, has raised doubts over Matthijs De Ligt’s ability to deliver the consistency expected of a defensive cornerstone at Old Trafford.
The Dutch coach, who spent years shaping players at Carrington, acknowledged De Ligt’s pedigree but questioned whether the centre-back has shown enough reliability to justify his place at the heart of United’s long-term plans.
“Matthijs de Ligt's form is a concern because consistent performances and leadership are not guaranteed week in, week out,” Meulensteen told CoinPoker. “He had a significant number of injuries last year and wasn't always a first-choice player for Ruben Amorim.”
Meulensteen pointed to De Ligt’s physical condition as an area requiring attention, suggesting his natural strength has tipped into something less advantageous.
“When he first emerged at Ajax, he was a strong athlete,” he explained. “But I believe he has become a little too heavy over time, which hasn't always benefited his game, despite his naturally strong build. This will be a critical season for him.”
With Amorim now overseeing United’s rebuild, squad depth at centre-back is both a luxury and a puzzle. Meulensteen believes his compatriot’s ability to secure a permanent role will hinge on his fitness and ability to integrate seamlessly into the defensive unit.
“They have so many central defenders to choose from,” he continued. “Consistency is key, especially in the backline, to create stability. Players need to understand each other's movements and react accordingly. Injuries sometimes necessitate chopping and changing. This is definitely a critical season for him.”
At 26, De Ligt is expected to be entering his prime, though Meulensteen admitted he was surprised at the defender’s relative youth given his well-travelled career across Ajax, Juventus, Bayern Munich, and now United.
“He's only 26, I thought he was older given all the clubs he's played for,” Meulensteen added. “You'd expect him to be the next consistent centre-back for the next four years, easily. We'll see what happens.”
De Ligt’s transfer from Bayern Munich last summer was intended to solidify United’s defence, but injuries blighted his trajectory. Yet, under Amorim's tenure, scrutiny remains.
While he impressed against Arsenal’s Viktor Gyökeres on the opening weekend, and largely in their recent 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage, lapses like his error in the build-up to Fulham’s equaliser have left questions hanging, which is normal at a club like United.
As the Red Devils search for their first league win of the new season against Burnley, the spotlight is firmly on De Ligt. Meulensteen believes De Ligt must embrace the challenge and show that his form, fitness, and leadership can meet the standards expected at Old Trafford.”
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