Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, acknowledges that it might serve Donny van de Beek’s interests better to seek more playing time elsewhere rather than staying at Old Trafford.
Since his debut goal in 2020, van de Beek has grappled with securing a consistent spot in the team, a trend that hasn’t altered even after reuniting with his former Ajax manager, Ten Hag. His playing time has been sparse, amounting to just 21 minutes across all competitions this season, prompting Ten Hag to express a reluctance to impede van de Beek’s desire for a departure.
“I can see he needs to play for the sake of his career and everything else,” remarked the United boss.
Van de Beek, publicly voicing his aspiration for regular game time, highlighted that he’s arrived at a juncture where, despite the financial security at Manchester United, he faces a pivotal “choice” to make.
“My priority is to start playing matches soon. If not here at Manchester United, then perhaps at another club,” he revealed to De Telegraaf. “It’s a healthy ambition. Football has always been my passion. While I earn well at Manchester United, money isn’t what drives me. I want to relish my profession every day.
“Last season’s extended absence due to a knee injury was tough. It makes you appreciate this wonderful profession even more. Wearing the Manchester United shirt is an honor, but I’m eager to play regularly. The manager is making different choices now. We have a strong squad, and I’m not the only one vying for a spot. Let’s see what unfolds in January.”
During his tenure under Ten Hag at Ajax, van de Beek emerged as one of Europe’s finest young midfield talents, contributing significantly to Ajax’s remarkable 2019 Champions League campaign and earning a Ballon d’Or nomination that year.
Although initially linked with Real Madrid as an alternative to their long-term target, Paul Pogba, van de Beek opted for a £40 million move to Manchester United in 2020. However, his Premier League starting appearances were limited to just four in his debut season, dwindling further thereafter.
Reports from 90min over the summer indicated van de Beek’s exploration of exit options, with discussions held among several European clubs including AC Milan, Inter, and Roma. Other potential destinations included OGC Nice, Celtic, and even a return to Ajax, but no agreement was reached at the time.