De Ligt: “I was really happy [after Bruno Fernandes’ penalty]. I didn’t go to the corner post with the others [to celebrate], because I was really tired and I wanted to save my energy and focus for the remaining minutes. I congratulated Bruno and then returned to my position

Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Burnley at Old Trafford continues to dominate headlines, not only for Bruno Fernandes’ last-minute heroics but also for the reaction of new signing Matthijs de Ligt. The Dutch defender’s candid admission after the game has offered fans a glimpse into his mindset during one of the most emotionally charged moments of United’s season.

The clash itself was filled with intensity from start to finish. Burnley came to Old Trafford with a fearless approach, troubling United’s defense on multiple occasions. By the 89th minute, the scoreline stood at 2-2, and tension filled the stadium as United’s season — and perhaps Ruben Amorim’s future — hung in the balance.

When United were awarded a late penalty deep into stoppage time, all eyes were on Fernandes. The captain stepped up under enormous pressure and dispatched his effort coolly, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and erupting the Theatre of Dreams into a frenzy. Players sprinted to the corner flag in celebration, while the crowd roared in relief.

But De Ligt’s reaction was different. The former Bayern Munich and Juventus man, who has already impressed with his leadership and defensive authority, chose not to join the pile-up of celebrations. Instead, he offered a quick congratulatory word to Fernandes before jogging back into position.

“I was really happy after Bruno’s penalty,” De Ligt explained after the match. “I didn’t go to the corner post with the others because I was really tired and I wanted to save my energy and focus for the remaining minutes. I congratulated Bruno and then returned to my position.”

His words reveal a player fully committed to professionalism and discipline, even in moments of ecstasy. For De Ligt, the job wasn’t finished. He knew Burnley still had a chance to launch one final attack, and he wanted to be ready. That mindset has already endeared him to many United fans, who praised his maturity and mentality on social media.

Supporters online hailed the Dutch international as a “true leader,” highlighting the contrast between emotional celebrations and the cool-headed awareness of a defender who understands the importance of concentration until the final whistle. Others argued that De Ligt’s attitude reflects exactly what United have been missing in recent years — a player with the focus and discipline required to grind out results in tense moments.

His approach also offers a glimpse into how he sees his role at United. Having captained Ajax at a young age and played under immense pressure in both Serie A and the Bundesliga, De Ligt has been forged in environments where lapses in concentration can be costly. That experience showed at Old Trafford, where he recognized the importance of staying sharp even as teammates celebrated.

Beyond individual reactions, the victory itself carried huge implications. Fernandes’ penalty didn’t just secure three points; it also relieved mounting pressure on Ruben Amorim, who was rumored to be one result away from the sack. De Ligt’s calmness in those final minutes helped United withstand Burnley’s desperate push for an equalizer, ensuring the team saw out a win that could reshape their season.

Looking ahead, Amorim will undoubtedly see De Ligt as a cornerstone of his project. His defensive solidity, combined with his mental resilience, makes him not just a signing for the present but a leader for the future. If United are to climb back into contention for major honors, players with De Ligt’s mentality will be crucial.

For now, though, fans will remember this match not only for Fernandes’ ice-cold penalty but also for the calm professionalism of De Ligt, who showed that sometimes the strongest celebration is staying focused on the battle that remains.