Ex-Man Utd assistant coach raises concerns over 'heavy' Matthijs de Ligt as Dutch defender faces 'critical' season under Ruben Amorim

So far this season, De Ligt has been the preferred man to marshal the centre of United’s three-man defence, flanked by Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw. That reshuffle has left long-serving defender Harry Maguire warming the bench, with the England international omitted from the starting XI in both the 1-0 loss to Arsenal and the 1-1 draw at Fulham.

De Ligt has shown moments of assurance, but Meulensteen believes the towering defender still has another gear to find. Against Fulham, his lapse in concentration played a part in Emile Smith Rowe’s leveller, costing United what would have been their first win of the campaign.

Speaking candidly to CoinPoker, Meulensteen said: "De Ligt's form is a concern because consistent performances and leadership are not guaranteed week in, week out. He had a significant number of injuries last year and wasn't always a first-choice player for Rubem Amorim.

“When he first emerged at Ajax, he was a strong athlete, but I believe he has become a little too heavy over time, which hasn't always benefited his game, despite his naturally strong build. This will be a critical season for him."

Meulensteen insists stability in defence is vital if United are to rebuild their reputation under Amorim, and that requires more than just physicality.

"They have so many central defenders to choose from. Consistency is key, especially in the backline to create stability," he said. "Players need to understand each other's movements and react accordingly. Injuries sometimes necessitate chopping and changing, this is definitely a critical season for him. He [De Ligt] is only 26, I thought he was older given all the clubs he's played for. You'd expect him to be the next consistent centre-back for the next four years, easily. We'll see what happens."

Next up, United will take on League Two side Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup before turning their attention back to the Premier League, with a clash against newly promoted Burnley at Old Trafford pencilled in for Saturday.