De Ligt Confident In Mazraoui Relationship Boosting Man Utd's Defence

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Matthijs de Ligt is optimistic that his partnership with Noussair Mazraoui will strengthen Manchester United's defence this season. The duo, who previously played together at Ajax and Bayern Munich, joined United in a combined deal worth up to £60 million. They were signed on Tuesday and are set to be included in the squad for the Premier League opener against Fulham on Friday.

"What can I tell you about Nous? He is an amazing guy, an amazing player," De Ligt shared in an interview with the club's media channels. "I've known him already for a long time, I think around 10 years now. There's a reason we always come together, like before in Ajax, then at Bayern Munich, now at Manchester United. I think it is a special relationship, and I'm really happy and glad that he's also going to be here, and I think we can help each other a lot."

United faced significant injury challenges last season, particularly among their defenders. They had to use 14 different centre-back pairings throughout the campaign due to these injuries. This season has also started with injury concerns as Luke Shaw will miss the beginning of the new season with a calf injury described by Ten Hag as short-term.

Leny Yoro, another new signing from earlier in the transfer window, is expected to be out for three months. Meanwhile, Raphael Varane and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have moved in the opposite direction. This overhaul is part of what attracted De Ligt to Manchester United.

"I actually really like the project," he added. "It's always nice to go somewhere and to feel that you're part of a new project, to feel that you're part of something new. Hopefully, myself and the other players that are coming this summer can give a great piece to the next history of Manchester United and to get the club back to where it belongs: on top."

The manager confirmed on Thursday that both De Ligt and Mazraoui would be included in the squad for their first Premier League match against Fulham. De Ligt expressed his excitement about further developing their partnership at United.

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Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 15, 2024