Former United star who was sold by Ten Hag has now become key player at Champions League club – opinion

Former Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek has enjoyed a resurgence in form in new surroundings in Spain.

The Dutchman arrived at United amid much fanfare in 2020 after impressing clubs across Europe with his tactical intelligence and an eye for goal at Ajax. At one point, he was strongly touted to join Real Madrid on the back of his brilliant performances in the Champions League.

The Red Devils ultimately won the race for his signature. However, Van de Beek struggled to replace Bruno Fernandes as the side’s number 10 under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Further, he lacked the physicality to play deeper in the middle of the park ahead of Fred and Scott McTominay in the Premier League.

Erik ten Hag, who got the best out of him in Amsterdam, also showed little faith in his potential, eventually allowing the ex-Ajax sensation to depart Old Trafford on loan to Everton and then Eintracht Frankfurt.

Van de Beek failed to deliver convincing performances in Merseyside and Frankfurt as well, leading to United parting ways with him on a permanent basis in the summer.

Girona took a gamble on him, reaching an agreement with the Mancunian giants to sign the 27-year-old for an initial fee of €500,000.

Van de Beek had a slow start in Spain and had to wait until late August for his debut. His first goal for the club came in October in a 3-2 defeat against Feyenoord. It was also his first goal in more than two years.

That strike seemingly proved to be a defining moment for him. From then onwards, the Netherlands international cemented his place in Michel’s starting lineup.

He is now one of the central figures at the club, which akin to Ajax, focuses on exploiting opponents by keeping possession of the ball, a style of play that suits Van de Beek’s technical ability and movement in the final third.

The former United star has now made 20 appearances for Girona, having scored three goals and assisted twice across all competitions, including the Champions League.

Michel’s trust in his skill sets is starting to pay off, with the Ajax academy product now showing glimpses of the talent which made him one of the most sought after midfield talents in 2020.

Van de Beek’s promising form is also good for United, as his total fee could rise to €9.1 million with different add-ons. They also have a sell-on clause in the deal should he move on for a fee.

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