Concerns about De Ligt’s Performance
Scholes’ main concern is that De Ligt hasn’t become a better replacement for Harry Maguire, who has made only two league starts this season. De Ligt has made two appearances for Manchester United in the 2025-2026 season, but it’s still early days, and the team is facing pressure to deliver results ¹.
Team Performance and Coaching
Scholes has also criticized the team’s coaching, describing them as “uncoached,” and questioned the recruitment strategy. He believes new signings need to make a substantial impact, which De Ligt hasn’t done so far. Manchester United’s upcoming match against Burnley will be crucial in determining their future prospects ².
Previous Criticisms
This isn’t the first time Scholes has expressed concerns about Manchester United’s signings. He previously criticized the signing of Joshua Zirkzee, who was acquired for £43 million from Bologna in July 2024. Zirkzee’s lackluster performance against Nottingham Forest reignited debate about his value to the squad.
De Ligt’s Potential
Despite the criticism, De Ligt has shown promise in his performances for Manchester United. He has been praised for his defensive skills, leadership, and composure on the ball. As a young player, he has a lot of potential, and it will be interesting to see how he develops in the coming seasons ³.
The Road Ahead
Manchester United’s upcoming match against Burnley will be a crucial test for the team. If they can secure a positive result, it could boost their confidence and momentum. However, if they fail to deliver, it could add to the scrutiny surrounding the team’s management and recruitment decisions.
Key Questions
- Can De Ligt prove his doubters wrong and become a key player for Manchester United?
- Will Manchester United’s struggles continue, or can they turn things around with some tactical adjustments and player development?
- How will the team’s management and recruitment decisions be impacted by their recent performances?
Ultimately, only time will tell if De Ligt and Manchester United can overcome their challenges and achieve success. With the right approach and some patience, De Ligt could potentially become a key player for the team and help them achieve their goals.