Former Manchester United player, Daley Blind starts for the Netherlands in their clash with Ecuador at the Khalifa International Stadium.
However, current Red Tyrell Malacia does not start for a second game running as manager, Louis van Gaal has elected for the experienced Blind to play at left wing-back.
Our 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘-𝗨𝗣 for #NEDECU! 👊🦁#NothingLikeOranje #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/0Jwy4jNgSL
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) November 25, 2022
According to match ratings website, fotmob.com, it perhaps makes sense as to why Blind has been selected over Malacia because Blind had a decent match against Senegal as he was awarded a rating of 6.9 by fotmob.com.
Blind had a passing accuracy of 86% and he showed defensive steel in the win over Senegal as he made four recoveries and made one interception and clearance [Fotmob].
Even though United fans will not get to watch Malacia from the start, they can keep an eye on Cody Gakpo, who has been heavily linked with the club, according to various media reports.
Vital United also published a story on the possibility of Gakpo heading to United, which can be seen here.
Gakpo, who scored in the 2-0 win over Senegal on Monday starts upfront in the number nine role for the Netherlands and it will be interesting to see how Gakpo gets on in the central role.
United are desperate for a number nine, because of the recent departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and the fact that Anthony Martial has only made 7 appearances for the club all season [Transfermarkt.com].
This possibly explains the reason as to why Erik ten Hag is looking at Gakpo as a potential option to lead the line and it will be fascinating to see how he gets on today against Ecuador on the big stage.
