Matthijs de Ligt is one of the most exciting defenders in world football. The Netherlands international is a former of making noise with the biggest sides in Europe. On the field, he has proven himself with his talent, leadership and physicality to be high on many manager’s radars.
Rising Fame and Early Life
De Ligt started in Ajax’s youth teams. He was a player of immense potential who shot through the academy ranks. He made his senior debut at the age of 17 so he has been playing for an age. He was a regular starter with Ajax and made many headlines with his performances in the Eredivisie.
De Ligt and Ajax, however, achieved something special in the 2018-19 season when they won the double plus Europa League – putting them on course for a historic treble. A domestic treble: Eredivisie, KNVB Cup and UEFA Champions League semifinal exit It was incredible for him to lead in way at that young age. His performance led to interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Barcelona and Juventus.
Move to Juventus
De Ligt arrived at Juventus in 2019 for a transfer fee of around €75 million. It was a massive step in his career He joined a defence that already boasted the likes of Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci at Juventus.
But De Ligt adjusted rather quickly after a tough start to life in Serie A. His ability to make strong tackles, win headers and keep calm when on the ball turned him into a key member of the Juventus backline. The club won a lot of matches during his time at the club and he was instrumental in it.
International, over the Netherlands
His performances for Ajax earned De Ligt a call-up into the Netherlands national team. He burst onto the scene in 2017 and quickly became a pivotal player. He was instrumental in the UEFA Euro qualifiers of 2020, leading the Netherlands to qualification for the tournament.
His performances in internationals made him a respected name across Europe. He has since made his way among the ranks of top Netherlands defenders alongside players like Virgil van Dijk.
Style of Play
A player who has a high understanding of the game, composure on the ball, and versatility. He has a good presence on the ball as a centre-back and often acts as an outlet to begin plays from the back. It’s not just his ability to lead that makes him successful, though. He has a good reading of the game and intercepts them nicely. He poses a very real threat on set pieces due to his physicality and aerial ability.
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De Ligt himself has also been linked with a move away, most notably to Bayern Munich recently. He has had a productive spell at Juventus, but there has been speculation that Bayern is looking to obtain his services. The switch to the Bundesliga may well be the next step in his career but there is no confirmation of it as yet.
However, De Ligt insists he is happy where he is for the time being. He is still very influential for Juventus and the Netherlands. However, he has remained in the headlines following his past performances for both club and country.
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
He is Ajax’s youngest captain ever in 2018. He was a part of Ajax’s beautifully dominant team that won the Eredivisie and the KNVB Cup in 2021. He had scored important goals, including in the quarterfinals against Juventus during their run to winning the 2019 UEFA Champions League, another highlight of his career.
He was also included in a number of year selection lists and had won several individual awards. His regular displays also make him one of the best young defenders anywhere on the continent.
Off-The-Field Impact De Ligt
De Ligt is also a consummate professional off the field. He does not post on social media but he seems quite mature for his age. His leadership goes beyond the field where he leads by example for younger athletes.
Be it in practice, manning the nets or taking shots at goal, he has earned the respect of not just his coaches but fans too. His love for the game has made him a fan favourite at all of his stops.
Looking Ahead
Matthijs de Ligt: Even as of 2024, Matthijs de Ligt is still one of the most coveted defenders in world football. His future shines bright, either with Juventus or eventually with Bayern Munich. The 24-year-old has accomplished a lot, but many consider his prime is still to come.
And De Ligt will certainly not stop carrying his teams to great heights. The maturity, skill, and leadership that he possesses will keep him at the top of his game for years to come.
