Donny van de Beek has struggled since joining Manchester United (Picture: Getty)
Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker has explained why he believes Donny van de Beek has flopped at Old Trafford.
Much was expected of Netherlands international Van de Beek following his £35m move from Ajax in the summer of 2020.
United handed the midfielder a five-year contract but it looks like Van de Beek will be offloaded way before that deal runs out as he continues to struggle for game-time.
Van de Beek featured in half of Manchester United’s Premier League fixtures in his first campaign at Old Trafford before being sent on loan to Everton during the second-half of last season.
The Dutchman wanted to revive his career at Goodison Park but failed to impress, often finding himself on the bench under Frank Lampard.
There was hope that a reunion with ex-Ajax boss Erik ten Hag would allow Van de Beek to rediscover his best form but he is yet to start a game for Manchester United this season.
Discussing Van de Beek’s struggles, former Red Devils title-winner Parker told IndiaBetting: ‘Donny was clearly bought by a sporting director or a wannabe person who plays online, who plays FIFA football and thinks he knows the players.
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‘But in theory, he doesn’t know them because he hasn’t done his homework.
‘Donny van de Beek is one of those players that looked good in an Ajax team in that Champions League period, but Manchester United is the biggest club in the world.
‘He’s come there and he’s suddenly realised this is just too big of a club for him. He just came there as a rabbit in headlamps.
‘The club was in turmoil at the time they bought Van de Beek and during his time at United he has been mixed with all different managers. He came at the wrong time.
‘He arrived at the club in a period where fruit and vegetables were mixed in the same dish, and it doesn’t really work, does it? There was no organisation and it’s a shame really, because he looks like a lovely lad.’
Manchester United are currently fifth in the Premier League and welcome in-form Newcastle United to Old Trafford on Sunday.
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Van de Beek has struggled since leaving Ajax.