Man United's Struggles: De Ligt's Mobility Questioned Amid Poor Start

Manchester United is facing significant challenges in the Premier League, marking their worst start to a season under manager Erik ten Hag. As of October 2024, the team is positioned 14th in the league table, having accumulated only eight points from seven matches. This poor performance has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike, particularly regarding the team's defensive capabilities. One of the players under scrutiny is Matthijs De Ligt, who was signed for £43 million from Bayern Munich. His performances have drawn criticism, with pundits labeling him as 'clunky' and lacking the agility he displayed during his time at Ajax. De Ligt's struggles have led to questions about his fitness and readiness to compete at the highest level in the Premier League. In their most recent match against Aston Villa, which ended in a 0-0 draw, United made notable changes to their defensive lineup. Veteran Jonny Evans stepped in and received praise for his solid performance, highlighting the contrast with the more expensive center-backs who were sidelined. This shift in strategy reflects the urgency for improvement within the squad. Despite the pressure, Ten Hag remains composed, emphasizing the need for the team to focus on improvement as a collective unit. The situation remains fluid, and it is uncertain whether De Ligt will regain his starting position after the international break, as the team seeks to stabilize its defense and climb the league standings.