International duties come with their highs and lows. While many take it as a chance to prove themselves for better game time on club levels, few can go through a rough patch serving their nation. Specially for defensive players, life can be hard at times. One mistake could cost your team a goal as they find themselves in a hole hard to dig out from. One such turn of events appeared in the Germany vs Netherlands 2-2 draw on Tuesday. 

De Ligt got some tough love to climb back after a rough patch 

The Netherlands got off to a strong start against Germany by opening the scoring. However, it wasn’t a great day for Manchester United centre-back Matthijs De Ligt. His mistake contributed to Germany’s second goal just before half-time. In a surprising move, the Dutch manager made the bold decision to substitute the centre-back at half-time. This wouldn’t be the first time we see a manager make a move like that on International stage. 

The Dutch and Liverpool Skipper in his Post-game interview took time to address the situation. He sounded like giving tough love to his fellow defence partner Van Dijk saying:

“This is football. You have to learn from this. It was one moment but at the highest level you will get punished for it.”

Koeman also gave a nod of approval to what Van Dijk said as he explained his decision of taking De Ligt’s saying. 

“Of course, I would rather have kept Matthijs de Ligt on the pitch. It just looks like he is now in a period where all his mistakes are being punished. I gave him a new chance today, but eventually protected him by taking him off.”

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De Ligt joined United on a five-year contract which offered him £195,000 per week. Erin Ten Hag has expressed his interest in instating De Ligt in the defensive lines. While the Dutchman is going through a rough patch, he has proved he can lead teams from the front in the past. Whatever happened at the Nations League campaign shouldn’t compromise his game time at United. 

While most focus on the things going south, being given the chance to pick yourself up is something De Ligt deserves. The former Bayern Munich man has made three appearances so far this season. After a week to forget, Ten Hag showing a little more faith could help the new signing.