United Beyond Manchester

While some Manchester United players thrived in the national teams this break, Matthijs De Ligt had two matches to forget. The 25-year-old was completely off his game, committing two errors that led to goals in two games. With this drop in form, should De Ligt start for United against Southampton on Saturday?

Matthijs De Ligt is known for his abilities in possession, however, both errors committed for the Netherlands came playing out of the back. His mistake against Germany led to his half-time removal, as Ronald Koeman turned to Jan Paul van Hecke.

After the error against Germany, Liverpool center-back Vigil van Dijk warned De Ligt saying, “This is football. You have to learn from this. It was one moment but at the highest level you will get punished for it.”

Top center backs in today’s game play out of the back effectively and mistake-free. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old’s problems are overshadowing his talents.

While De Ligt struggled, Harry Maguire had a solid outing against the Republic of Ireland. The English center-back helped his side to a clean sheet on his return before sitting out Tuesday’s win over Finland.

With Maguire playing well and getting rest, he should be given the nod in the early match on Saturday at St. Mary’s. Erik Ten Hag should be able to rest De Ligt against a far inferior side, giving him time to recover and focus for United.

I do not doubt that Matthijs De Ligt will be a top player for Manchester United in the long run, but Harry Maguire should get the start on Saturday to spell the Dutchman.