De Ligt explains strong start to season at Manchester United: “I feel very confident” — the Dutch centre-back says stability, fitness, and maturity have been key to his fine form, even though he was overlooked by the Netherlands for the October internationals.
The 26-year-old has been one of United’s most consistent performers so far this campaign. Speaking to the club’s official channel, De Ligt reflected on how his first uninterrupted pre-season in years has left him both physically and mentally sharp.
De Ligt: “I feel physically and mentally strong”
“I actually feel really good, to be honest, and I’m happy with how I’ve started the season. I feel strong, both physically and mentally.” — Matthijs de Ligt
The defender explained that his form stems from a calm, focused summer. For the first time in five or six years, he didn’t play in an international tournament, didn’t change clubs, and remained injury-free.
“The last time that happened was during my final season at Ajax, and that turned out to be one of the best years of my career. I think this makes a huge difference. Mentally and physically I feel great — very confident. Of course, my teammates and the manager help a lot because they give me that confidence.”
De Ligt added that he’s now fully accustomed to the pace and intensity of the Premier League: “These are all important factors that have brought me to this level.”
“I’m my own biggest critic”
Despite his solid start, De Ligt says he never settles for “good enough.”
“I’m extremely self-critical, but I’ve become a bit milder over the past few years because I used to be too hard on myself — and that didn’t help. I think I’m more balanced now.” — Matthijs de Ligt
He revealed that feedback from family and friends tends to focus more on the team’s performance than his own. “They know I already understand how I’ve played. No one needs to tell me what went right or wrong, because they know I’m my own biggest critic.”
Lessons from Juventus and defensive maturity
Reflecting on his time at Juventus, De Ligt said early mistakes — including several handball incidents that led to penalties — taught him valuable lessons about adapting his defensive technique. “Since then, I’ve become very aware of my positioning, and I now defend with my hands behind my back.”
“My best years are still ahead”
De Ligt believes he is yet to reach his peak as a defender.
“As a defender, you’re often at your best around 29, 30, or 31. I’m 26 now, so my top years are still ahead of me. I’ve already experienced a lot in my career, and I’ll use that to my advantage.” — Matthijs de Ligt
He acknowledged Manchester United’s mixed form this season, with the team sitting ninth in the Premier League, but remains optimistic. “I can feel we’re improving, and hopefully we can get good results in the coming weeks.”
Our View
In our view, De Ligt’s resurgence reflects the value of stability and maturity. After turbulent spells at Juventus and with the national team, he’s rediscovered rhythm and composure at United. His ability to self-assess and adjust — both mentally and tactically — shows why he remains one of Europe’s most intelligent defenders.
If he continues on this trajectory, De Ligt could soon re-establish himself as a cornerstone for both club and country, just as he was during his Ajax breakthrough.
FootballPlace analyst Liam Rowe believes De Ligt’s evolution is a sign of growth, not decline. “I think he’s learning to channel his perfectionism better,” he says. “When he first broke through, he tried to carry everything on his shoulders. Now he’s calmer, stronger, and more efficient — exactly what a defender entering his prime should be.”
In my view, this version of De Ligt — confident, settled, and self-aware — could anchor Manchester United’s rebuild. His leadership and reliability are precisely what Erik ten Hag’s side have been missing in recent seasons.
Key Insights
- Matthijs de Ligt says his strong start stems from a rare summer without injuries or transfers.
- The Dutch defender feels “physically and mentally strong” and “very confident.”
- Admits to being his own biggest critic but has found better balance.
- Credits Juventus experience for his defensive discipline.
- Believes his peak years are still to come at Manchester United.
What’s Next
Manchester United face Brighton at Old Trafford on 25 October. De Ligt will look to maintain his fine form as United push to climb the table and solidify their European ambitions.
👉 Is Matthijs de Ligt entering the peak years that could define his Manchester United career?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 22 Oct 2025 19:22
He's doing great this season isnt he?! Still not sure about that back 3 or 5 whatever you want to call it, anyways for the Dutch Nationals he hasn't been selected last time. But in my opinion he should because I think he's better than for example van Hecke or de Vrij
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