Manchester United's defensive performance against Arsenal showcased the strengths of their backline, with Matthijs de Ligt emerging as a key figure. De Ligt's composure and defensive prowess were instrumental in keeping Arsenal at bay.
Manchester United's defensive display at the Emirates Stadium would have pleased Erik ten Hag had he been watching. Lisandro Martinez led the way with his usual aggressive style, while Noussair Mazraoui showcased the tenacity and fighting spirit that has already made him a fan favorite at Old Trafford. Matthijs de Ligt was another standout, playing the full 120 minutes at the heart of the defense.
Harry Maguire lasted 104 minutes before illness, which had affected his training earlier in the week, forced him off. Martinez shifted to center forward as United opted for greater height in the back three to counter Arsenal's aerial dominance. Maguire put in a brilliant performance and received widespread praise, but de Ligt was equally impressive alongside him. The Dutchman snuffed out danger with relentless blocks and won numerous aerial duels. His exceptional clearance from under his crossbar in extra time was a testament to his composure and skill. It was a good day to be a part of United's defense, except perhaps for Diogo Dalot, who was sent off just after the hour mark. Mazraoui played both wing-back roles, secured countless crucial headers from set pieces, and finished the game in the back three. His initial £12.8 million (rising to £16 million) move from Bayern Munich last summer is looking like a bargain, and he has quickly become a favorite under Erik ten Hag. But for de Ligt, the class has taken longer to shine through. At £42.7 million, he was the more expensive of the two players to join United from Bayern in a double deal last August. He also arrived with those familiar questions surrounding his performance at Ajax, Juventus, and Bayern Munich. Ten Hag had made de Ligt his captain at Ajax as a teenager, and now he was hoping to reunite with a player who hadn't quite reached the expected heights in the five years since leaving Amsterdam. Juventus and Bayern both sold him at a loss, and he endured a shaky start at Old Trafford. This summer, he didn't even get a game for the Netherlands in the European Championship. When his opportunity finally came for his country in September, he was at fault for goals against Bosnia and Germany, and Ronald Koeman took him off at half-time in the latter game to 'protect him'. Ten Hag praised de Ligt when he returned to Carrington, stating that his quality would shine through at United once he settled in at the club, having missed out on pre-season. 'I know Matt and he’s a great personality, his character, he will overcome this and will bounce back in this situation Dutch squad,' Ten Hag said in September. 'Definitely not his club situation. I’m not afraid for this situation, I know his qualities, I know his personality and I know he’ll fight back.' De Ligt's reunion with Ten Hag lasted only a dozen games before the manager was sacked at the end of October. De Ligt was saddened to see the man who had given him his chance at Ajax and now bought him to Old Trafford leave, but he has thrived under Amorim. Despite some question marks about the suitability of certain players to fit into Amorim's 3-4-2-1 system, his central defenders seem well-suited to the shape. It is bringing the best out of Maguire, Martinez offers left-footed balance and passing, and De Ligt has played in the system for both club and country before. De Ligt has started 10 of Amorim's 13 games in charge, and his partnership with Maguire and Martinez is blossoming. While others may have grabbed the headlines at the Emirates, De Ligt's performance was excellent. With Ten Hag gone, he has settled in without the spotlight that came with being another Dutch signing and another former Ajax player in the previous regime. This approach to the transfer market has not always been successful, but Martinez is returning to his best form, Mazraoui has been excellent so far, and De Ligt is starting to show signs of returning to his best. All three are now crucial to Amorim's plans, but De Ligt deserves his moment in the spotlight
MANCHESTER UNITED DEFENCE MATTHIJS DE LIGT NOURSAIR MAZRAOUI HARRY MAGUIRE PREMIER LEAGUE ARSENAL FOOTBALL TRANSFERS
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ethan Nwaneri Shines on Arsenal Debut, Jesus and Martinelli Lead Title ChargeArsenal's Ethan Nwaneri impressed in his first league start, providing crucial assists for Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli. Martinelli's goalscoring form continues, while Gabriel Jesus is also finding the net regularly. This timely resurgence from the Brazilian duo puts pressure on Liverpool in the title race.
Read more »
Nwaneri Shines as Arsenal Beat BrentfordEthan Nwaneri impressed in his Premier League start for Arsenal, helping the team secure a 3-1 victory over Brentford.
Read more »
Carlos Baleba Shines in Brighton's Arsenal ClashCarlos Baleba's impressive performance against Arsenal highlights his emerging talent. The Cameroonian midfielder showcased his skills with a dazzling display of technical ability and athleticism, outshining established stars in the process.
Read more »
Baleba Shines for Brighton Against ArsenalCarlos Baleba's impressive performance against Arsenal highlights his burgeoning talent and potential.
Read more »
Arteta Under Fire as Arsenal Stumbles, Newcastle ShinesArsenal's defeat sparks debate about Mikel Arteta's tactics and management. Supporters question if he can turn things around, while Newcastle receives praise for its recent form.
Read more »
Arsenal Transfer Hopes Dashed as Isak Shines Against GunnersArsenal's January transfer hopes for attacking reinforcements are likely to be dashed after Alexander Isak's impressive performance against them in the Carabao Cup semi-final. While Isak's potential signing remains a long-term target, Arsenal are unlikely to meet Newcastle's hefty valuation during this transfer window.
Read more »