Pundit Rio Ferdinand believes that Donny van de Beek blew his chance in the Premier League encounter between Aston Villa and Manchester United, according to several media outlets in England. However, the former defender is not ready to dismiss Van de Beek just yet.
Van van Beek started in Birmingham but was unable to make an impression. Ferdinand recalls excelling with Ajax in the 2018/19 Champions League season. The midfielder was already training with Erik ten Hag at the time. “The management is aware of what he has to give. He has not demonstrated that in his time at Manchester United or throughout his entire career in England,” Ferdinand mentions the loan stint at Everton on his podcast FIVE.
Pundit Rio Ferdinand believes that Donny van de Beek should not be dismissed yet
“I saw him play four or five times for Ajax, including a couple of stadium games. I know it’s been a while,” the club veteran recalls, “but he was one of the three or four individuals you knew had a certain importance.” According to Ferdinand, Van de Beek’s strongest quality is his ability to finish chances in the penalty area. “The difficulty is that at Manchester United, he is placed in a way that never gets him into the penalty area.”
“He doesn’t get to show off his best qualities,” Ferdinand adds. “He hasn’t established a rhythm or momentum. His performance was akin to his previous Manchester United appearances: he had little influence.” Ferdinand believes that Ten Hag’s opportunities assist Van de Beek. “Players must be given an opportunity,” says the coach. “Who must decide which players to stay. If this week is the best time to accomplish it, then so be it. We lost, but Donny van de Beek wasn’t wholly to blame.”
The Dutchman once again competed against the club in the League Cup. He started the game and was taken off after an hour.
