Pranav Nair
Rene Meulensteen surprised by Solskjaer’s treatment of Donny van de Beek
Speaking to Stadium Astro (h/t Daily Mail), former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has expressed surprise by the lack of playing time afforded to Donny van de Beek.
The Dutch international was the club’s first major signing of the summer. He has, however, failed to secure a spot as a first-team regular.
“It does really surprise me that he’s not being used as much by Ole.”
Van de Beek scored on his debut against Crystal Palace. Despite that, he has made just 19 appearances, 11 of them coming off the bench. (h/t Transfermarkt)
The midfielder’s situation at United is in contrast to his pivotal role at Ajax. The 23-year-old was a regular for the Dutch giants and made it a habit of scoring important goals.
“I think why people in Holland are baffled is… Donny van de Beek – you can ask anyone – is a very good player.”
His peripheral role at United has baffled his supporters in the Netherlands, Meulensteen included. He believes Van de Beek has been hard done by the ‘unfair’ treatment afforded to him.
“I don’t think it’s about [just] the treatment.”
It is clear that Meulensteen has a good opinion of the midfielder. In fact, he went on to compare his performances at Ajax to that of Bruno Fernandes at United.
“He had a similar impact for Ajax at the time that Bruno Fernandes has for United now.”
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A versatile player, Meulensteen has backed Van de Beek to play in a variety of positions.
Good players transcend difficult moments and come out stronger. Hopefully, Van de Beek will prove Meulensteen right and emerge as a key player for us in the future.
