De Ligt has no problem with Amorim’s harsh words: 'I’m Dutch'

The central defender played 42 matches in a season where Manchester United faced one of the most turbulent and disappointing campaigns in recent memory.

Despite a solid personal performance from Matthijs de Ligt, the team collectively struggled to find consistency, identity, and results. United finished in a shocking 15th place in the Premier League their lowest position in decades and the pressure mounted throughout the year, both on the pitch and off it. What was initially seen as a transitional season under new manager Rúben Amorim quickly spiraled into a crisis of confidence, leadership, and cohesion.

The season offered little solace for fans, with frequent defensive errors, a lack of cutting edge in attack, and an overall disconnect between the players and the tactical system. The Europa League was supposed to be the last hope of salvaging pride, but even that fell short when United lost the final to Tottenham Hotspur, missing out on both silverware and a route back into the Champions League.

In the immediate aftermath of the final, Amorim made headlines with his blunt and emotional response. He declared that he would not hesitate to walk away from the job if it was deemed the best decision for the club, adding that he wouldn't even entertain discussions about financial compensation a rare gesture in modern football. Earlier in the season, he had publicly criticized the squad, going as far as to call them "perhaps the worst team in the club’s history." The comments stirred debate among pundits and fans, and while some viewed them as unnecessarily harsh, others praised his transparency and passion.

One player who had no issue with Amorim’s forthright style was Matthijs de Ligt. Speaking during United’s post-season tour of Asia, the Dutch international addressed the manager’s approach directly. “I’m from the Netherlands, so I actually appreciate that kind of directness,” he said with a smile. “It might be a cultural thing. We’re used to speaking our minds and hearing the truth, even when it’s not pretty.”

De Ligt elaborated on the reaction from the outside: “I understand that the media are shocked, because this usually doesn’t happen. Managers often hide behind clichés or avoid tough conversations in public. But I think people should actually be glad that someone is finally speaking out, saying what he really thinks, and sometimes telling some hard truths. That honesty is rare at this level, and it shows how much he cares.”

Despite the team’s poor season, De Ligt sees Amorim as part of the solution, not the problem. “I’ve had many managers in my career some great ones but he’s one of the easiest coaches to approach as a player. He’s open, he listens, and he’s not afraid to challenge us. He’s also extremely focused on the details. Whether it’s positioning, pressing triggers, or build-up structure, he always knows exactly what needs to improve. That gives players clarity, even in difficult moments.”

The 25-year-old defender believes better days are ahead for Manchester United. “Obviously, this season was disappointing for everyone involved players, staff, and especially the fans. But this is a process. Rúben came into a difficult situation, and it takes time to change things. From the way we’re training now and the conversations we’ve had, I really believe you’re going to see a different Manchester United next season.”

Sources close to the club suggest that Amorim will be backed in the transfer market this summer, with United looking to bring in reinforcements in key areas, especially in midfield and attack. There is also talk of a leadership reshuffle within the squad, aimed at creating a more resilient and accountable dressing room culture. De Ligt, given his experience and professionalism, is likely to be one of the key figures in that new core.

For now, United’s fanbase remains cautiously hopeful. The pain of a historically poor season still lingers, but the presence of strong personalities like Amorim and De Ligt offers a glimmer of light at the end of a long, dark tunnel.