The new defender Matthijs de Ligt is a player who cleans up at the back and gets involved up front. Exactly what FC Bayern was missing recently. And he is confident: “I accept the challenge of replacing some of Lewandowski’s goals.”
Matthijs de Ligt sol take on the role of defense chief at Bayern Munich. At least when it comes to the ideas of the Bayern bosses about President Herbert Hainer. “Matthijs de Ligt is an absolute dream player for us. I’m absolutely convinced that Matthijs will play a major role,” believes Hainer. He was the youngest player, at Ajax and in the national team, “who took on leadership roles. And that’s what we want, what we need.”
Davies: “He’s a leader”
That’s why the Bavarians let the pleasure cost around 80 million euros, including additional bonuses. The Dutchman is the second most expensive purchase in the club’s history.
But the people of Munich get a good overall package. Alphonso Davies, who plays in the back left for Julian Nagelsmann, is already looking forward to his new partner. “He’s a super talent, very fast. He’s a leader. It’s great for us that he’s coming here. He’ll bring quality and leadership qualities,” said Davies.
Nagelsmann expects de Ligt goals
And coach Julian Nagelsmann expects even more from the trained central defender, as he revealed to the American press on the America tour. He should score seven or eight goals, preferably with a header, and compensate for some of Lewandowski’s missing goals. Quite conceivable when you see what the only 22-year-old Dutchman has done at Juve. De Ligt also promptly delivered at FC Bayern: The Dutchman only needed 1:35 minutes for his debut goal in a clear 6:2 (3:0) win in a friendly against DC United as part of the trip to the USA.
Defense is the most important thing
But: “I’m a defender,” emphasizes de Ligt. “That’s why defense is the most important thing. But at a club like Bayern you have to be able to do more, defend the build-up game and score because of my strength in the air.” And adds, in the spirit of the coach: “I accept the challenge of replacing some of Lewandowski’s goals.”
They like guys like that at the record champions, especially when they understand what the “Mia san mia” on Säbenerstrasse means. “I am proud and honored to be part of this great club – with great history and one of the best teams in Europe,” said de Ligt.
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Source: BR24 Sport 07/25/2022 – 2:56 p.m
