Bruno Fernandes has been left impressed by Donny van de Beek as the Dutchman works off hard in the gym ahead of the new season.
Donny van de Beek has a lot to prove in the upcoming season. Last summer, the Dutchman was a big-money purchase from Ajax and did not exactly prove his calibre at Manchester United. The attacking midfielder made only 19 appearances in the Premier League, mostly coming off the bench.
His first season could be written off as an adaptation period in a new league and environment. However, he will have no excuses this term, as expectations are high. United want to finish one level above their second-placed standing last season and hope everyone, including van de Beek, performs at their very best.
While it is only still pre-season, the Dutchman had been available from the start, unlike other high-profile teammates who had Euro duties. The attacker seems to be preparing well for the upcoming season after learning that a good physique would be essential to succeed.
After a somewhat underwhelming debut season, the Dutchman was linked with moves away from the club. However, from his preparations during pre-season and the understanding that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could use him more this season, he could be set to stay at the club and play a vital role.
Van de Beek even took the armband for a few minutes during United’s pre-season friendly against Brentford. After the game, club captain Harry Maguire jokingly tweeted out, “Don’t stretch that armband @Donnyvdbeek!”
It may well have been after seeing the Dutchman build himself in the gym during pre-season training. Another one of United’s prominent stars, Bruno Fernandes, elaborated on this new development. In an exclusive interview with Manchester United’s official website, Fernandes revealed was left impressed with van de Beek.
He said, “As a professional player, you always prepare for your season before you come back for training, you always do something before, and I think everyone was doing their jobs at home. I’m happy to see how everyone is, how happy they are to be back, and they are training really hard.”
When specifically asked about the Dutchman bulking up, Fernandes said, “Yes, he’s working hard and working hard in the gym. Obviously, he is one of the quality players we know, and now he’s building up.”
With the season starting soon, van de Beek seems ready for the physical battle with opponents. The physical nature of the Premier League often pushes players to work on their bodies and bulk up a little. However, how much it would help the Dutchman and United remains to be seen, but in all, it’s good news for how things are progressing with the former Ajax star.
