Matthijs de Ligt sends emotional farewell to Bayern Munich supporters after completing move to Man United as defender labels exit 'bittersweet'

Matthijs de Ligt has bid farewell to Bayern Munich fans with a heartfelt message on social media after Manchester United completed the £60million double signing of the Dutch defender and Noussair Mazraoui from the German giants.

De Ligt, 25, spent two seasons at the Allianz Arena, winning a Bundesliga title and a German Super Cup. 

De Ligt fell out of the starting XI at times during the 2023-24 season as he struggled with a knee injury, with Thomas Tuchel preferring Dayot Upamecano, Eric Dier and Kim Min-jae.

Nonetheless, Bayern fans made their opposition to the transfer clear with a petition that garnered over 70,000 signatures, and De Ligt took to Instagram to post his gratitude to supporters on Tuesday evening.

De Ligt wrote on Instagram: 'Dear Bayern fans, I want to thank each and everyone of you for all your love and support.

'I have spent two amazing years playing for this beautiful club. It has been a true honour to have played for a club like Bayern Munich. We have achieved unforgettable moments together. 

'Winning the title as well as several amazing CL nights. These memories will stay with me forever.

'This is why leaving this club feels bittersweet. I will always remember the love and support I have received from the players, the staff members and from the fans. The recent petition signed by so many of you has touched me deeply.

'Thank you all for the two amazing years. I wish FC Bayern good luck winning many more titles, like Bayern has always done. Mia San Mia.'

De Ligt is now reunited with United boss Erik Ten Hag, whom he played under at Ajax, after agreeing a five-year contract with the option of another year.    

He strengthens United’s central defence following the departure of Raphael Varane, with fellow summer arrival Leny Yoro set to miss up to three months with a foot injury sustained against Arsenal in pre-season.

Mazraoui, 26, also played under Ten Hag at Ajax. He won three league titles with the Dutch club and another with Bayern.

The Morocco full-back has also made 28 appearances for his country and reached the semi-final of the 2022 World Cup.