Man Utd sign De Ligt and Mazraoui from Bayern Munich

Manchester United have finalized the acquisition of Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich. Both defenders, who previously worked under Erik ten Hag at Ajax, have committed to contracts until June 2029 and June 2028, respectively, with an option to extend for an additional year.

These signings represent Manchester United’s third and fourth additions of the summer transfer window.

In their statements, both players expressed their enthusiasm for joining the club. Matthijs de Ligt shared, “Upon learning of Manchester United’s interest, I was thrilled about the chance to take on a new challenge at such a storied club. The discussions that followed impressed me with the football leadership’s vision and the role they foresee for me.”

Noussair Mazraoui commented, “Erik ten Hag played a crucial role in my growth as a player, so it’s exciting to reunite with him during the prime years of my career. I understand his expectations and am committed to giving my all to contribute to the team’s success.”

Matthijs de Ligt, born on August 12, 1999, in Leiderdorp, Netherlands, began his football journey at FC Abcoude before joining Ajax’s youth system at age 10. He made his professional debut for Ajax at 17 in September 2016. The centre-back became a pivotal figure in Ajax’s defense, notably captaining them in the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United, where he became the youngest player in a UEFA club final. He was later awarded the “Golden Boy” and led Ajax to a domestic double and a UEFA Champions League semi-final. After stints with Juventus and Bayern Munich, where he won domestic titles, De Ligt has earned 45 caps for the Netherlands.

Noussair Mazraoui, born in Leiderdorp on November 14, 1997, started his football career at AVV Alpen at age four and later joined Alphense Boys before progressing through the Ajax academy. He made his Eredivisie debut in February 2018 and accumulated 93 appearances for Ajax between 2018 and 2022, scoring six goals. His performances attracted Bayern Munich, where he signed a four-year contract in May 2022. Mazraoui has earned 28 caps for Morocco, scoring twice.

This summer, Manchester United has also secured the services of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee and Lille defender Leny Yoro. The addition of De Ligt and Mazraoui will strengthen the squad’s defensive options, particularly as Luke Shaw and Yoro are sidelined due to pre-season injuries.

The new signings are expected to make their debut on August 16, when Manchester United opens the 2024/25 Premier League season against Fulham. Their arrival comes at a crucial time, bolstering the squad’s depth as the team navigates early-season challenges.