Matthijs de Ligt, a Dutch professional footballer, is widely recognized as one of the most talented defenders of his generation. With his exceptional physique, impeccable tackling and passing technique, and dominance in aerial duels, Matthijs is undoubtedly a strong contender for the title of the world’s best defender. Despite his young age, he has already established himself as an integral part of the Dutch football team. Starting his journey as an amateur at the age of nine, Matthijs’ career has skyrocketed, having played 42 Eredivisie games and 13 Europa League games, earning an impressive average grade of 7.03. Additionally, he has proudly represented the Dutch national team.
Quick Facts
- Age: 24 Years
- Family: Father – Frank de Ligt, Mother – Vivian de Ligt
- Occupation: Football Player
- Nationality: Dutch
- Height: 6’2″ (188 cm)
Rise to Stardom
Stardom and fanfare may be inherited, but it only lasts when it is earned. Matthijs de Ligt sure seems to have earned it by being one of the most talented young football players.
Starting it off at the age of six, Matthijs first played for FC Abcoude for 3 years. At the age of nine, he became a youth player for AFC Ajax, playing for the second team of the U11’s. During the early years of his career, Matthijs played as a midfielder. His first goal came when he played for the second team of the U15’s.
Matthijs’ talent was soon noticed by his coach who made him a centre-defender. His first brush with limelight came in 2015 while playing the Future Cup. Though Ajax lost the tournament, Matthijs emerged as the 2015 ABN AMRO Player of the Tournament. He ended the year with yet another Player of the Tournament award for Copa Amsterdam.
After being awarded AFC Ajax Talent of the Future in 2016, Matthijs’ career witnessed a meteoric rise. In August, Matthijs made his professional debut for Jong Ajax in a game against FC Emmen. By September 2016, he had made his debut for Ajax’s senior team in a cup game against Willem II. 25 minutes into the game, Matthijs scored his first professional goal, thus becoming the 2nd youngest goal scorer ever, behind Clarence Seedorf. Adding to his list of feats, same year, Matthijs became the youngest player ever to play in a European final. His aerial duels and defensive technique on field earned him not just loads of appreciation, but also a place in Ajax’s senior squad.
In March 2017, Matthijs struck the big breakthrough of his career by making his debut for Holland’s national football team in a World Cup qualifying match against Bulgaria, thus becoming the youngest Holland debutant since Mauk Weber.
Personal Life
Matthijs de Ligt was born on August 12, 1999 in Leiderdorp, Netherland. Right after his birth, the family shifted to Abcoude. At the age of five, he started playing tennis. He was introduced to football by his friend. Immediately fascinated by it, he polished his skills and soon found a place for himself at the FC Abcoude. Talking of his relationship status, Matthijs has been involved with a girl romantically but nothing much is known about her or their love relationship.