There was a time when Donny van de Beek was regarded as one of the best young talents in European football – playing a pivotal role in a vibrant Ajax side during the 2018/19 season under current Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.
At 22 years old, a catalogue of impressive performances caught the eye of many European big guns.
The Nijkerkerveen native established himself as a fine attacking midfielder – with a happy knack for arriving late in the penalty area and popping up with some key goals for his team.
A series of memorable performances led to a Ballon d’Or nomination at the back end of 2019, with the player allegedly missing out on a dream move to Real Madrid in the closing stages.
Move to Old Trafford
With football returning to spectator-less stadiums during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, United reached an agreement with Ajax to acquire Van de Beek.
The deal was completed three days later, with the midfielder signing a five-year contract for a reported £35 million plus £5 million in add-ons.
The former de Godenzone man chose to wear the number 34 shirt at Old Trafford and generated great excitement from most of the fanbase.
However, some questioned where the Netherlands man would fit into Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s line-up – and even if the Norwegian manager had ever wanted to sign him.
Struggles in England
Despite a decent start to his Premier League career, it became apparent that the Dutchman had plenty of work to do to become a regular starter.
Bruno Fernandes was performing magnificently and occupied a similar role to Van de Beek.
Many supporters were left perplexed when Ole refused to offer the recruit a regular run in the starting XI, and several online individuals made their feelings known as they longed for this to change.
However, even when the former United striker did supply a starting berth, Donny looked well off the pace, and games just seemed to pass him by.
Loan to Everton
Having missed the rescheduled European Championships through injury, Van de Beek was determined to have a strong 2021/22 campaign.
Solskjaer departed in November 2021, and the Dutchman scored in the Norwegian man’s final game away at Watford.
He earned some minutes under caretaker boss Michael Carrick, enjoying a rare start in a European victory in Villarreal.
Ralf Rangnick then arrived as interim manager for the remainder of the campaign and informed the Dutchman he was not part of his plans.
An agreement was reached for a loan move to Everton in January – with hopes for an emergence of form with regular playing time.
He started five of his first six matches before his stint at the club was disrupted by persistent thigh injuries.
Van de Beek would feature once more for the Toffees that season, scoring in a 5-1 Premier League defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on the final day.
Reunion with former mentor
There were hopes of a career revival at Old Trafford when Ten Hag arrived ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
The United chief had unlocked the player’s potential in Amsterdam, moulding him into a potent attacking force.
Despite this, Van de Beek remained omitted from the starting XI.
He was given a mini run in the side before and after the 2022 Winter World Cup in Qatar, before a season-ending injury once more derailed any possibility of progression.
Comeback and loan to Germany
Having recovered from his setback, the Old Trafford outfit opted to cut their losses and were open to offers for the troubled star.
French side Lorient and La Liga regulars Real Sociedad expressed an interest – but neither side could agree on a deal.
On 1 January 2024, the player joined Eintracht Frankfurt on loan until the end of the season – the deal reportedly included a £9.5 million buy option.
The 27-year-old endured an unsuccessful spell in Germany, however, playing just 357 minutes of football – and failing to register a single goal or assist in that time.
He did not make Die Adler’s European squad, with a permanent switch ruled out.
What next?
Following Thursday’s report in the Manchester Evening News, United are working on a permanent exit for Van de Beek this summer.
The midfielder is keen on a fresh start and is working to maximise opportunities.
The Dutchman will return to Carrington for pre-season training on July 8 – with both club and player in agreement that his future lies away from Old Trafford.
Conclusion
A highly talented and technical player, Van de Beek has proven hard-working and tactically versatile throughout his career.
His suitability for English football has to be questioned, and he often seemed to lack belief in his ability under adversity.
The transfer has become synonymous with the club’s propensity under the Glazer’s stewardship.
Hopefully, this will be something Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his new super-team of directors can address as soon as possible.
Mooted destinations – such as Italy, Turkey or Saudi – may be appealing, but – perhaps – a move back to the Eredivisie would make the most sense.
I wish him all the best.
What are your thoughts on Donny’s time at Manchester United? Let us know in the comments or through our socials.
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