Matthijs de Ligt secured his place in professional football history on 24 May 2017 when he became the youngest player to compete in a major European final. At 17 years and 285 days old, he started for Ajax against Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League, signaling the beginning of a high-profile career as a competitive centre-back.
Early Career and Ajax Development
Born in 1999 in Leiderdorp, De Ligt joined the Ajax youth academy at age nine. After transitioning through the youth ranks, he made his senior debut in September 2016 against Willem II, scoring a goal that established him as the second-youngest goalscorer in club history. By 2018, he was appointed club captain, leading the squad to a domestic double and a Champions League semi-final appearance.
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In 2019, De Ligt moved to Serie A club Juventus on a five-year contract. During his time in Turin, he contributed to a league title and an Italian Cup victory. He transitioned to the Bundesliga in 2022, signing with Bayern Munich. His stint in Germany included securing a league title in his first season and notable defensive performances in the Champions League, including a crucial goal-line clearance against Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.
Manchester United and International Progression
De Ligt signed a five-year contract with Manchester United in August 2024. He recorded his first goal for the club against Southampton the following month. Internationally, he debuted for the Netherlands at age 17, becoming the youngest starter for the national team since 1931. He has accumulated over 50 caps, representing his country at UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Fast facts
- Born: 1999, Leiderdorp
- Citizenship: Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Professional debut: 2016
- Awards: Talent of the Year (2018), Kopa Trophy
- Golden Boy Award: 2018
- Position: Centre-back
- International caps: Over 50
Questions readers ask
What major awards has Matthijs de Ligt won?
He received the Talent of the Year award in 2018, the Kopa Trophy, and was the first defender to win the Golden Boy award in 2018.
Which clubs has he played for in his career?
He has played for Ajax, Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
