Transfer Centre

Matthijs de Ligt 'increasingly frustrated at lack of game time at Bayern Munich'

By Ben Sully | 22 September 2023

Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt is reportedly growing frustrated with his lack of playing time during the opening stages of the new season.

Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt has reportedly become increasingly frustrated with his lack of playing time.

After completing a £68m move from Juventus in July 2022, De Ligt quickly established himself in the centre of the Bayern defence.

The Netherlands international started 38 of his 43 competitive appearances last term, chipping in with three goals and one assist.

After being a regular starter during the 2022-23 campaign, De Ligt has had to settle for a role on the bench in the opening stages of the new season.

Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel has preferred to use Dayot Upamecano and summer signing Kim Min-jae as his first-choice central-defensive pairing.

Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae on July 26, 2023 © Reuters

As a result, all four of De Ligt's Bundesliga appearances this term have come from the bench, while he was an unused substitute in Wednesday's Champions League win over Manchester United.

According to BILD, De Ligt is becoming increasingly annoyed with his lack of game time, and his frustration appeared to spill over in midweek.

The report claims that the 24-year-old 'steamed out' of the Allianz Arena after failing to make it onto the pitch against Man United.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Saturday's league meeting with Bochum, Tuchel addressed the concerns over De Ligt's playing time.

Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel reacts on August 27, 2023 © Reuters

"Matthijs 100% deserves to play," Tuchel told reporters. "He's in shape. Of course, he personally doesn't have enough playing time, but he is a team player.

"Everyone must be ready at all times. Matthijs does that, so everything is good. But there was no clarifying conversation with Matthijs, and that's not necessary."

With Bayern unbeaten in five competitive games, De Ligt is unlikely to force his way into the side for Saturday's home fixture.

After picking up 10 points from their opening four league matches, Bayern will move to the top of the table if they beat Bochum.