Matthijs de Ligt Hopes to Fortify Manchester United's Defense with Familiar Faces

Manchester United's new centre-back Matthijs de Ligt believes his longstanding partnership with Noussair Mazraoui will significantly enhance United's defense, which struggled with injuries last season. The duo, who joined from Bayern Munich, aims to contribute to the team's fresh project and return the club to its former glory.

Manchester United's newly signed centre-back Matthijs de Ligt is optimistic that his enduring partnership with Noussair Mazraoui will bolster the club's defensive lineup, a department hit hard by injuries last season.

De Ligt and Mazraoui, both acquired from Bayern Munich, inked their contracts on Tuesday, marking United as their third team together. They are expected to feature in United's season opener against Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday. 'What can I tell you about Nous? He is an amazing guy, an amazing player,' De Ligt remarked in an interview with the team’s in-house media.

'I've known him for around 10 years. Our bond has brought us together at Ajax, Bayern Munich, and now Manchester United,' added the 25-year-old Dutch defender. 'It's a special relationship, and I'm really happy. We can help each other a lot.'

De Ligt, who signed a deal until 2029, and Mazraoui, with a contract until 2028, have played over 100 games together. Familiar with United boss Erik ten Hag from their Ajax days, De Ligt credited Ten Hag for his development. 'He has played a big part in my growth. He was the first trainer who made me captain at 18,' De Ligt said. 'The confidence he gave me at that time was really special.'

De Ligt cited United's defensive rebuild as a key reason for joining the club. 'I really like the project here,' he said. 'I hope to help bring Manchester United back to the top where it belongs.'