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Donny · van de Beek has completed a permanent move from Manchester United to Girona, ending a disappointing four years at Old Trafford.
The Netherlands midfielder, who stood out in the Ajax squad just one step away from the 2019 UEFA Champions League final, has been praised and signed a four-year contract with Girona until 2028. In the summer of 2020, Donny van de Beek moved to Manchester United for around £40 million, hoping that under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's stewardship, he could help a progressive club return to the pinnacle of English and European football.
But despite scoring a goal on his Premier League debut, his efforts to establish himself have only led to limited playing time. Van de Beek spent the second half of the 2021/22 season on loan at Everton before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2024 without exercising a right to buy for a six-month period.
"Everyone at Manchester United wishes Donny the best of luck in the next chapter of his career. He will be back in England soon as Girona play a pre-season friendly between Newcastle United and Bournemouth next month," a statement from his now former club reads. Earlier this week, Van de Beek had already spoken about his imminent departure in a message to fans.
'Dear Manchester United family, today is a day to remember as my adventure at the club comes to an end,' he wrote. "I would like to thank everyone for their support over the years. From the moment we arrived at Manchester United, we felt very welcome and we are very grateful for that.
"Thank you to everyone at the club for making us feel at home. Special thanks to all the fans who have made these years unforgettable. Football aside, the birth of our two children ensures that Manchester will always have a special place in our hearts. Good luck to all of you, we'll see you again. ”
Van de Beek can look forward to playing in the Champions League with Girona in the 2024/25 season, after Catalonia unexpectedly finished third in La Liga.