Man United centre-back Matthijs de Ligt had a difficult international break with the Netherlands - but he should not be too worried.
It is fair to say Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt's international break did not go according to plan.
Despite the Netherlands recording what turned out to be a comfortable victory, De Ligt was guilty of committing two errors that led to Bosnia scoring either side of half-time. It was fair to say the United defender was not happy with his performance. Addressing his decision to take De Ligt off at the interval, Koeman explained: "It just looks like he is now in a period where all his mistakes are being punished. I gave him a new chance today, but eventually protected him by taking him off."
Currently, Harry Maguire is De Ligt's biggest rival in the race for a starting berth. The England international has, of course, also been the victim of strong criticism in recent years, yet found the strength and the courage to fight back and resurrect his United career last season, so much so he was one of the club's best performers throughout 2023/24.
Maguire responded to his manager's call, producing a series of key performances last season. He probably would have started the FA Cup final had he been fit, and he would have most definitely started for England at the European Championship.
Manchester United FC Erik Ten Hag Harry Maguire
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