Matthijs de Ligt's frustration grows at Bayern Munich

By SABC Sport
23rd September 2023

Bayern Munich's star defender, Matthijs de Ligt, is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated due to his limited playing time.

The Dutch international, who made a high-profile £68 million move from Juventus to Bayern in July 2022, initially made a strong impact at the heart of Bayern's defence.

De Ligt was a regular starter last season, featuring in 38 out of 43 competitive matches and contributing three crucial goals along with one assist. However, the 2022-23 Bundesliga season has seen a drastic change in his role.

Bayern's head coach, Thomas Tuchel, has opted for Dayot Upamecano and summer signing Kim Min-jae as his preferred central defensive pairing at the beginning of the new campaign. As a result, De Ligt has found himself spending more time on the bench than on the pitch.

In the current season, all four of De Ligt's Bundesliga appearances have come as a substitute, and he was left unused on the bench during Bayern's recent Champions League victory over Manchester United, raising concerns about his future at the club.

A recent report by BILD has shed light on De Ligt's growing frustration. It claims that the 24-year-old defender "steamed out" of the Allianz Arena after not getting the opportunity to play against Manchester United.

Addressing the concerns surrounding De Ligt's reduced playing time, Coach Tuchel emphasized the defender's worthiness of a place in the starting line-up. "Matthijs 100% deserves to play," Tuchel told reporters. "He's in shape. Of course, he personally doesn't have enough playing time, but he is a team player."

Tuchel also highlighted the importance of readiness among the squad members, suggesting that De Ligt, despite his limited appearances, maintains a professional attitude. "Everyone must be ready at all times. Matthijs does that, so everything is good. But there was no clarifying conversation with Matthijs, and that's not necessary."

As Bayern continue their unbeaten streak in five competitive matches, De Ligt's prospects for securing a spot in the starting line-up for Saturday's home fixture against Bochum appear bleak.

With ten points from their first four league matches, Bayern have an opportunity to climb to the top of the table with a victory over Bochum. However, De Ligt's frustration is undeniably a story to watch as it unfolds in the coming weeks, potentially impacting his future at the club.