'We'll see the old Matthijs' - De Ligt backed to recover from shaky Man Utd spell by Red Devils legend amid Ruben Amorim struggles

De Ligt was once touted as the next big thing after he performed exceptionally well for the Ajax super team under Erik ten Hag, which reached the semi-final of the Champions League in the 2018-19 season. However, the Dutch defender failed to realise his potential in his stints at Juventus and Bayern Munich. De Ligt moved to Old Trafford in the summer of 2024.

De Ligt has been a key figure in the United defence since his move last year and has had enough opportunities under Ten Hag and then Amorim. In the 2025-26 campaign, he continues to feature regularly under Amorim, but the belief is that he can reach a much higher level compared to his current performance. Echoing a similar sentiment, Red Devils legend Staam pointed out the lack of confidence in his compatriot, but he backed the 26-year-old to be back at his very best.

Speaking toAlgemeen Dagblad, Staam said: "Against Arsenal, Matthijs was traditionally strong and accurate. The tricky thing at United is that it’s hard to see what’s expected of defenders. It’s often a deadlock. The conditions to excel aren’t really created. You can’t really talk about potential anymore. Matthijs is smart and mature and should be a key player by now. 

"I sometimes miss the confidence in defence and in the build-up that he had at Ajax. But I’m sure he still has that. Sometimes you’re insecure because of what’s happening in front of you. I know that feeling. Always covering for you and expecting the same in return but not getting it. Then he goes back to the basics, even though he’s a fantastic defender who keeps going. I hope he continues this trend, and we’ll see the old Matthijs again."

With no European football, Amorim's side will get the entire week to recover from the 3-0 loss in the Manchester derby and prepare for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Chelsea on September 20.