“I had to make this decision” - Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl opens up on why Matthijs de Ligt was sold to Manchester United
Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has shed light on why they decided to sell Matthijs de Ligt to Manchester United this summer. In a press conference, Eberl discussed the difficult circumstances that led to the transfer, acknowledging the fans' emotional response, but emphasized the club's long-term vision and tactical needs.
Matthijs de Ligt departed Bayern Munich to join Manchester United last month in a deal reportedly worth €50 million, with an initial €45m plus €5m in add-ons. He joined the Red Devils along with former Bavarian teammate Noussair Mazraoui.
However, Bayern’s decision to offload De Ligt came as a surprise to many, especially considering the defender’s stature. Over 70,000 Bayern fans signed a petition urging the club to block the defender's sale. The discontent among supporters was further amplified by the harsh criticism from Bayern legend Lothar Matthaus, who labeled the transfer “a disgrace.”
However, Max Eberl explained the club's decision-making process in a recent press conference. He said (via Team Talk):
"I followed it, including the petition. I know that many fans identify with him. Nevertheless, I had to make this decision because we also had to sell players. We felt more comfortable with [Dayot] Upamecano and Kim [Min-jae] because they can defend higher up the pitch. And then an offer came in for de Ligt."
Since joining Manchester United, Matthijs de Ligt has featured in all four of their Premier League matches this season. He made a notable impact in their most recent fixture against Southampton, opening the scoring with a header that set the tone for a commanding 3-0 victory.
Matthijs de Ligt provides injury update after Manchester United's win over Southampton
Manchester United center-back Matthijs de Ligt has put the mind of fans at ease after he was subbed off due to a cramp in their Premier League match against Southampton on Saturday (September 14). He was replaced in the 87th minute by former Real Madrid man Casemiro.
After the match, De Ligt said (via Metro):
''I’m fine I just had a little bit of cramp the last five minutes. It’s the first time I think in five months that I played three times in a row. I wanted to play until the end but the coach said it would be better to take me off."
The Dutch defender scored the first goal for the Red Devils in their emphatic victory over the Saints. United will next face Barnsley in the EFL Cup at Old Trafford on Tuesday, September 17.