Matthijs de Ligt gives verdict on Ruben Amorim's blunt approach at Man United

Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has commended Ruben Amorim’s straightforward and candid approach, believing it will ultimately benefit the club in the long term.

Since arriving from Sporting in November, Amorim has struggled to consistently secure wins.

However, he has nonetheless delivered some of the most candid and withering statements about United during his brief tenure.

Following the 3-1 home defeat to Brighton in January, Amorim described his side as “probably the worst in Manchester United history.”

After the Europa League final loss to Tottenham, he stated he would walk away without seeking compensation if either the club’s hierarchy or the fans believed it was the best course of action.

During the recent post-season tour of Asia, Amorim controversially accused his players of being “chokers” after a shock defeat to a South-East Asia select XI.

De Ligt believes Amorim’s bluntness reflects his Dutch background and reputation for straightforwardness, and sees it as a positive for the club moving forward.

“I’m from Holland so I like it,” he said.

“I can understand the media are in shock because normally this doesn’t happen.

“But I think you can also be really happy that finally someone speaks out, says what he thinks and speaks the truth.

“I really appreciate him in our conversations personally. It gives me a feeling I can trust him and he can trust me.”

After securing just seven Premier League victories since taking charge in November, Amorim will head into the new campaign under significant pressure.

Ruben Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag in November

However, De Ligt believes that Amorim’s efforts with the first-team squad are laying the groundwork for future success.

“I’ve experienced many managers and he’s one of the most easy to talk to as a player,” the Dutchman said.

“He’s really into details. Before signing new players, first he’s looking at the culture, what needs to change and what can be improved to become a better football club. From next season we will see more of that.

“I think he wants to build a team of players who are together, fighting for each other and making the most out of what they have.

“Maybe before, you had the best players, but you’re not a team.”