Donny van de Beek has turned into the forgotten man at Old Trafford. However, he may well be about to be handed a lifeline.
I don’t want to say that Donny van de Beek is already approaching his last chance saloon at Manchester United, though it’d be naive to think anything other than we all expected better.
The Dutchman looked bright in the early going, with fans often calling for more chances to be handed to the classy midfielder. Those opportunities would be few and far between.
Since Pogba returned to the team after *those* ill-advised comments from Mino Raiola, he’s been brilliant. However, this latest injury blow means the Frenchman will be out of action for at least a few weeks. Donny, your time is now.
Let’s be honest. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer signed Van de Beek as Pogba’s long-term replacement. For what it’s worth, I still think our number six will be playing his football elsewhere next season. Over the next handful of games, we’re going to really see whether Van de Beek is cut out to make it at the Theatre of Dreams.
Although they’re different players, Donny’s keep-it-simple style could work brilliantly alongside a risk-taker like Bruno Fernandes. Sure, Van de Beek will probably need a game or two to get back up to full fitness as he’s not had many minutes under his belt. As fans, it’s our job to give him that time and not get on his back at the first opportunity.
Ole has to show faith in the former Ajax man
First and foremost, it’s about trust from the manager. Van de Beek hasn’t been able to string a run of starts together, so this feels like the ideal time to at least offer him that opportunity.
As you’d imagine, the last time we saw Van de Beek, his confidence looked pretty shot. Although they’re better than their league positions suggests, a start away at West Bromwich Albion this weekend gives off the impression as a good starting point. You’ve also got a double-header against Real Sociedad in there, either side of a game against Newcastle United.
The fixtures have lined up kindly for the #34 to find his feet. Now, it’s down to the player to show why United signed him for big-money. And also prove Solskjaer wrong for limiting his opportunities.
No more excuses
Van de Beek has had his settling in period and there’s a clear path straight into the first-team. There can be no more excuses made for the Dutchman. It’s now down to him to grasp this opportunity with both hands and not look back.
For what it’s worth, I think Donny has what it takes. Hopefully, the forgotten 23-year-old United star is about to become an integral part of the team over the next few weeks.
Does Donny van de Beek have to impress now? Or does he still have time to turn it around? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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