De Ligt shines for United against Arsenal

Pundits applaud Matthijs de Ligt after a strong defensive showing as United build against Arsenal.

De Ligt earns rave reviews after standout display against Arsenal

Manchester United’s opener against Arsenal was spoiled by a soft set-piece goal and a failure to convert 22 chances, but Matthijs de Ligt stood out in the back line with steady defensive work. The Dutch center back made 10 defensive contributions and repeatedly cut out Arsenal’s advances, notably by shackling Viktor Gyokeres as he pressed from the front. His performance helped stabilize United’s defense in a game that otherwise left questions about finishing and set-piece discipline.

The praise came from several corners of the football world. Former England manager Glenn Hoddle called it the best game he had ever seen De Ligt play, while Voetbal International’s Suleyman Ozturk lauded his duels, organization, and communication. Ozturk also rated the display nine out of ten, signaling a fresh start for a player who moved from Bayern Munich to United in 2024 and is now shaping his role in Ruben Amorim’s three-man defence ahead of a World Cup year.

This performance matters beyond a single match. It suggests United may have found a stable defensive spine that can grow with the team under Amori m’s system, especially if De Ligt continues to handle duels and leadership duties as the line of defence shifts. Yet one strong showing does not erase past criticism or guarantee consistency, particularly when a team still works to sharpen transitions and set-piece defense. The real test will be whether De Ligt can sustain this level through a tougher run of fixtures and in high-pressure moments.

Looking ahead, the narrative around De Ligt could become a double-edged sword. If the form holds, supporters will see him as the anchor of a rebuilt back line; if not, the same pundits who praised him could quickly reframe the discussion around his international form and club duty. The lad needs a steady run to confirm growth remains real rather than a favorable snapshot.

Highlights

A single game can set a tone, but the long season will tell the real story.