Pep Guardiola has expressed frustration with Manchester United’s involvement in his transfer plans, particularly regarding their pursuit of a key summer target. This is not the first time Guardiola has experienced interference from Manchester United, having previously seen the club poach a target from Real Madrid.
The rivalry between the two clubs has been further intensified by these transfer skirmishes, adding extra tension ahead of the Community Shield final.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, has confirmed the club’s interest in Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt. Since Ten Hag’s arrival, Manchester United has shown a strong interest in Dutch players, highlighted by their signing of Netherlands international Joshua Zirkzee earlier in the summer.
In an interview with AD Sportwereld, Ten Hag addressed the speculation surrounding De Ligt, acknowledging the club’s interest in the player.
He explained that although it is uncertain whether De Ligt will join, the club values players based on their abilities, character, and fit within the team, not just their nationality. Ten Hag emphasized that the decision to pursue De Ligt was made collectively and not imposed upon the club.
He also stressed that media criticism does not influence their transfer decisions, underscoring the importance of building a squad through a unified, collaborative approach.
Should Manchester United succeed in signing De Ligt, it would significantly bolster their defense. Ten Hag’s preference for Dutch players is evident, as seen in previous acquisitions like Tyrell Malacia and the loan of Wout Weghorst. United’s interest in Frenkie de Jong also reflects this trend.
Furthermore, the inclusion of Dutch figures like Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake in the coaching staff illustrates Ten Hag’s strategy of integrating Dutch influence within the club.
De Ligt, valued at £55 million, is known for his defensive skills and tactical awareness. He first rose to prominence under Ten Hag at Ajax before moving to Juventus in 2019.
His addition would address United’s defensive vulnerabilities. To fund this transfer, United may need to sell players such as Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire, which would not only raise the necessary funds but also make room in the squad for De Ligt.
As Guardiola prepares for the upcoming season amid these transfer disputes, Manchester United continues to strategically build their squad under Ten Hag’s leadership. This focus on Dutch talent aims to create a cohesive and competitive team.
The ongoing transfer saga adds intrigue to the new season, promising intense competition both on and off the field.
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