Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, previously from Bayern Munich, have been successfully signed by Manchester United for a combined fee of £60 million. De Ligt, a 25-year-old Dutch defender, formerly played under United’s manager Erik Ten Hag during their time at Ajax and has now committed to the Red Devils with a five-year contract, which includes a potential year’s extension.
A multi-league title winner with former clubs Ajax, Juventus, and Bayern, De Ligt remarks on his eagerness to take on this new challenge at Manchester United. He notes his particular admiration for the club’s football strategy and perceived fit for him within it. Having been nurtured by Ten Hag in the early stages of his career, he is also looking forward to reconnecting with him professionally, vowing his commitment to achieving success at the esteemed club.
Upon the exit of Raphael Varane, United would find their central defence bolstered with De Ligts inclusion, especially with the recent injury to new recruit, Leny Yoro, that could sideline him for up to three months.
One year his senior, Mazraoui also worked with Ten Hag during his spell at Ajax, where he won three league titles, in addition to one with Bayern. A Moroccan full-back, he brings with him the experience of 28 international appearances and a World Cup semi-final run in 2022. Having signed a four-year contract with an option for an extra year, Mazraoui seems eager to start his journey with Manchester United, particularly expressing delight at the prospect of playing at Old Trafford.
Both new signings are set to feature in Manchester United’s season opener against Fulham at Old Trafford on the upcoming Friday night.