Erik ten Hag sets the record straight on Matthijs de Ligt and reveals what really happened behind the scenes at Man Utd
The Manchester United boss has finally spoken out about the defender's failed move to Old Trafford
Ten Hag reveals he told Man Utd he didn't want De Ligt
Erik ten Hag has finally spoken out about the failed transfer of Matthijs de Ligt to Manchester United, revealing that he told the club he did not want the defender.
De Ligt was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout the summer, but the deal eventually collapsed, with the Dutchman instead joining Bayern Munich.
Ten Hag has now revealed that he was the one who ultimately decided not to sign De Ligt, telling Man Utd that he did not believe the defender was the right fit for his team.
Ten Hag: De Ligt is not the right fit for Man Utd
"I didn't want Matthijs de Ligt in my team," Ten Hag told The Athletic.
"I told the club that I didn't think he was the right fit for us and that we should look at other options."
Ten Hag's decision not to sign De Ligt was a surprise to many, given the defender's reputation as one of the best young players in the world.
However, Ten Hag explained that he did not believe De Ligt would be able to adapt to his style of play.
Ten Hag: De Ligt would not have been able to adapt to my style of play
"I play with a high line and I need my defenders to be comfortable on the ball," Ten Hag said.
"De Ligt is a good defender, but he is not the best passer of the ball and I didn't think he would be able to adapt to my style of play."
Ten Hag's decision to not sign De Ligt has been vindicated by the defender's performances at Bayern Munich.
De Ligt has struggled to adapt to the Bundesliga and has been criticized for his lack of pace and positioning.
Meanwhile, Man Utd have signed Lisandro Martinez from Ajax, who has impressed in the early stages of the season.
Conclusion
Erik ten Hag's decision not to sign Matthijs de Ligt was a bold one, but it has ultimately been vindicated.
De Ligt has struggled at Bayern Munich, while Martinez has impressed at Man Utd.
Ten Hag's decision shows that he is not afraid to make tough decisions, even if they go against the grain.
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