The Story Of Van De Beek's Difficulty With Manchester United: A 6-month Absent Mentally

JAKARTA - Manchester United's Donny van de Beek recounted his difficult times during the injury period that forced him to be absent. He admitted that these conditions affected him mentally.

Van de Beek appeared for the first time with United since his knee injury in January 2023. He appeared when his team played Olympique Lyon in a pre-season match at Murrayfield Stadium, Scotland, Wednesday, July 19.

The knee injury he suffered was against AFC Bournemouth.

"I don't need to tell you that after an injury like that, it was a difficult time mentally for me and my family," Van de Beek said, quoted from the club's official website via Antara.

Absence for six months did not break the 26-year-old midfielder's direction. Van de Beek felt that his injury period made him stronger mentally.

"It's easy to say it but I think in the end it makes you mentally stronger because you realize when you play every day you don't want a moment like this to happen but if that happens, you realize how much you love playing football," he continued.

In the match against Lyon, the Dutchman managed to score one goal for his team's victory. He said the goal was the biggest moment for him.

Van de Beek's goal was scored through a volley after receiving a cross from Daniel Gore in the 49th minute.

"It was incredible, my first game was after six months. Being able to return to the pitch, it was incredible. Of course, it would be great if you scored a goal too, but that's not the most important thing, it's an added thing," Van de Beek said.

"It was also extraordinary because I've been looking forward to this moment for months. I know it's just a friendly game, but for me, it's a big moment," he added.

Van de Beek is predicted to take part again in the MU pre-season match against Arsenal on Sunday, July 23, at 04.00 WIB at the MetLife Stadium, United States.