Fulham - Man United: The Year of the 'Hound' De Ligt?

24/08/2025 08:27:00 GoalGuru

With his intensity, intelligence, and excellent adaptability, Matthijs de Ligt is demonstrating that he can become one of the leading center-backs worldwide, just as Erik ten Hag predicted some years ago.

His outstanding performance against Arsenal clearly indicates that this season might be the time for De Ligt to shine brightly, elevating both United’s defense and himself to a new level.

The Day of the "Hound"

Although MU suffered a 0-1 defeat to Arsenal in the opening match of the 2025-26 season, De Ligt stood out as a rare bright spot. Facing Arsenal’s sharp attack, especially newcomer Viktor Gyokeres, De Ligt played an almost flawless game. According to Sofascore statistics, he made 6 clearances, 2 blocks, won 8 out of 15 duels (6 aerial), and executed an excellent tackle on Bukayo Saka in the final minutes. A notable moment was his sprint back to stop an Arsenal counterattack. Although this move was not recorded in the stats, it showed De Ligt’s tactical intelligence as he intercepted Martin Odegaard’s pass, disrupting a dangerous opportunity for the opponents.

This defensive play is typical of De Ligt’s style—a defender “like a hound,” as English football experts describe him. He does not hesitate to perform the “dirty work” such as tackling, contesting duels, or diving to block shots, even if it sometimes makes him appear awkward. Former United defender Wes Brown said, “I like De Ligt. He’s strong, never gives up, and is an excellent defender in fierce tackles.” The match against Arsenal proved this praise true, as De Ligt completely shut down Gyokeres, who only managed to win one shoulder duel without causing any significant threat.

Not only excelling defensively, De Ligt also contributed to United’s attacking play. He completed 49 out of 57 passes (an 88% success rate), including one chance-creating pass and five accurate long balls. One of his shots nearly earned an equalizer, showing his ability to join attacking situations. With 74 touches, De Ligt displayed confidence and great influence on the pitch.

De Ligt almost “marked out” Gyokeres in MU’s loss to Arsenal

Ten Hag’s prediction coming true?

Under Ruben Amorim, MU uses a 3-4-3 formation, flexibly switching to 4-4-2 when not in possession and 4-3-3 during build-up. In the match against Arsenal, De Ligt played as the right-sided center-back in the back three, alongside Luke Shaw and Leny Yoro. When United shifted to a 4-4-2 defensive shape, he acted as the senior center-back, directing the defense and helping maintain stability. Amorim requires his center-backs not only to be strong defensively but also to actively participate in ball circulation, and De Ligt fulfilled this role excellently. He frequently advanced to “clear space” (as Amorim calls it), enabling goalkeeper Altay Bayindir and midfielders to develop attacks.

De Ligt’s versatility is a significant advantage in Amorim’s system. He can play as a central or right-sided center-back or even as a reliable backup option. However, United’s defense is highly competitive. Harry Maguire, with his experience and leadership, is often preferred in the central position of the back three. Leny Yoro, with superior speed, suits the right center-back role, which demands covering wide areas. Lisandro Martinez is another choice in the four-back formation. Nevertheless, De Ligt has proven he can adapt to any role. Former defender Phil Jones emphasized that the central center-back in a three-man defense needs to move intelligently rather than constantly sprint, and De Ligt demonstrated this through his situational awareness and precise positioning.

De Ligt’s former Ajax coach, Erik ten Hag, once said in 2019 that he was “one of the best center-backs in Europe” with the potential to become “number one in this position.” Although De Ligt’s journey since then has not always been smooth, his innate qualities—strength, determination, game reading, and never-give-up spirit—have always been the foundation for his return to top form. The 2025-26 season could be the time for De Ligt to fulfill Ten Hag’s prophecy.

Vu Manh

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