Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has stated that Donny van de Beek can still establish himself at Old Trafford.
The former Ajax player made his name playing with a fellow countryman in Amsterdam before securing a £34 million transfer to the Theatre of Dreams in the 2020 summer.
Van de Beek, however, has not consistently been a part of the club’s plans under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Ralf Rangnick, or most recently Ten Hag.
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Even if injuries have not helped his situation, the Netherlands international has only made five appearances in all competitions this season, totaling just 88 minutes.
Van de Beek has played for the Red Devils in 55 games, totaling two goals and two assists, however he has only made starts in four Premier League games since his arrival.
Ten Hag has argued that the midfielder, who is 25 and still under contract with Man United through 2025 with the option of an additional year, might still have a future with the team.
Ten Hag replied, “Yes, but that can’t be now, when asked by reporters if Man United had to write off Van de Beek’s hiring as a failed decision.
“Since he had a solid preseason, he was injured but is now back. Last week, he showed up and I thought he performed very well for 50 minutes. I also thought today’s performance was respectable.
“Despite the fact that I am fairly familiar with him and am aware of his potential, he performed as I had anticipated in terms of posture, pressuring, and transition. However, I believe he is capable of doing more, and that is his best quality. He can pose a greater threat to an opponent’s goal.
“I don’t know [why he has struggled], but in the game time we provided him during my time here, he is doing well,” the coach said.
Van de Beek started three Premier League games for Man United this year off the bench, but he hasn’t played in the top tier since Man United’s win over Liverpool in August.
Bruno Fernandes will be sidelined against Aston Villa due to a collection of yellow cards, so the Dutchman might get a chance to play extra time.
Van de Beek participated for 58 minutes as Man United defeated Real Sociedad 1-0 in the Europa League this week, but the Red Devils were unable to advance as group champions.
Ten Hag’s club is currently fifth in the Premier League standings ahead of their matchup with Unai Emery’s squad and will now play in a knockout round playoff match against a third-placed Champions League team.