"You can win and lose to anyone" - Matthijs de Ligt shares what he hopes Ruben Amorim can do to make Manchester United 'even better'
Manchester United center-back Matthijs de Ligt has opened up about Ruben Amorim's appointment at Old Trafford. The Dutch defender hopes his new head coach will help the Red Devils improve their form.
United parted ways with Erik ten Hag at the end of last month after their 2-1 defeat to West Ham United. The Dutch boss managed to keep his job in the summer, despite United's hierarchy searching for alternatives, with his FA Cup victory last season aiding his case.
However, Ten Hag's lifeline was short-lived as he struggled to turn things around at Manchester United. He left the Red Devils in 14th place in the Premier League after a poor run of form.
Amorim, who's highly rated in Europe for his exploits at Sporting CP, arrived in Manchester on Monday (November 11) and has officially taken over the reins at Old Trafford.
Speaking about Amorim's appointment, De Ligt said (via Utd District):
“I don’t know much about the new coach yet, but I do know that he did a good job at Sporting. With a new coach, it’s always a bit of a wait and see. You have to do your very best and remain yourself."
"Hopefully, the team will get even better. We have to keep winning these kinds of matches: you can win and lose to anyone in the Premier League. You can see that again now with Tottenham against Ipswich."
“You have to be ready every week and I hope that the new coach will get the continuity and that we can play with confidence.”
Amorim's first match in charge of Manchester United will take place on November 24 after the international break against Ipswich Town.
Ruud van Nistelrooy leaves Manchester United assistant role after Ruben Amorim's arrival
Manchester United have confirmed that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left his role as assistant coach after Ruben Amorim's arrival at Old Trafford.
United brought in their former striker in July to work under Ten Hag and signed him on a two-year deal. Following Ten Hag's departure, the Dutchman took over as interim boss and managed three victories and a draw in his four matches in charge.
There was speculation over his future at the club before Amorim arrived in Manchester, and United have now confirmed that they have parted ways. A statement on their official website read:
"Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford."