What's Happening?
Matthijs de Ligt, a key player for Manchester United, has been left out of the Netherlands national team for the upcoming October international break. Despite his improved performances under Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, De Ligt has not been selected by Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman. Koeman has opted for other defenders such as Virgil van Dijk and Micky van de Ven, leaving De Ligt out of the squad. This decision comes after De Ligt was previously an unused substitute in a match against Poland and played only briefly against Lithuania. The exclusion has surprised many, given De Ligt's role as a mainstay in Manchester United's defense.
Why It's Important?
De Ligt's exclusion from the national team highlights the competitive nature of international football selections and the challenges players face in maintaining their positions. For Manchester United, De Ligt's continued presence is crucial as the team seeks stability amid a challenging season. His absence from the national team allows him to focus on club commitments, potentially benefiting Manchester United as they aim to improve their league standing. For the Netherlands, the decision reflects Koeman's strategic preferences and the depth of defensive talent available to the national team.
What's Next?
De Ligt will aim to continue his strong performances for Manchester United to regain his place in the Netherlands squad, especially with the World Cup approaching next year. His focus will be on upcoming Premier League matches, starting with a game against Sunderland. For the Netherlands, the decision to exclude De Ligt will be tested in their upcoming international fixtures, and Koeman's defensive choices will be scrutinized based on team performance.
