When Matthijs de Ligt signed for Manchester United in August 2024, many fans believed it was purely a footballing decision — a new challenge, a reunion with familiar faces, and the allure of the Premier League.
But now, the Dutch defender has revealed there was something much deeper behind his move to Old Trafford — a touch of destiny.
In a recent interview (via The Telegraph), De Ligt opened up about his long-standing connection with United.
It turns out his bond with the club began long before his professional career — when he was just a seven-year-old kid from the Netherlands wearing a Cristiano Ronaldo shirt.
“It was the time that Cristiano became Cristiano. Everybody knew Cristiano at United,” De Ligt said.
“There was also [Edwin] Van der Sar at United at that time and they played Champions League finals. So I was always a big Ronaldo fan and a fan of United because of that.”
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
It wasn’t the first time United tried to sign him either. The club reportedly approached him years ago, but the timing wasn’t right.
“They tried to buy me before, but it was probably not the right moment, or there were other options that at that time suited me better,” he admitted.
“But in the end maybe destiny brought me here… it’s a dream for every player to play for United.”
Why Matthijs de Ligt feels that he is at the 'peak' of his career?
For De Ligt, joining United was more than just another transfer — it was the completion of a circle that started with that famous No.7 shirt.
After leaving Ajax in 2019, he played alongside Ronaldo at Juventus, learning first-hand what made his childhood idol tick. “Ronaldo is the best of his generation and a huge example for young players,” De Ligt once said. “Even in training he has a crazy intensity — you wonder if he really is 35 years old.”
Now at 26, De Ligt says he feels like he’s entering his prime and is determined to help bring success back to Old Trafford. “I feel mentally and physically really good,” he said. “I’m now getting into my peak, my best years.”
The Dutchman has already become a key figure under Ruben Amorim, leading from the back with calm authority.
And as United prepare for a fierce clash with Liverpool, De Ligt knows exactly what’s at stake. “You feel around here what it means,” he said. “We’re improving, but we have to keep winning.”
For a player who once idolized Ronaldo and Van der Sar from afar, walking out at Old Trafford in a United shirt feels like more than just a career move — it feels like fate fulfilling its promise.
Manchester United news and related links
- Wayne Rooney sends clear message to Ruben Amorim ahead of Liverpool showdown
- Wayne Rooney hits back at Man Utd outcast's excuse for struggles at Old Trafford
- Man United eye Saudi Pro League striker to solve goal issues