Donny van de Beek says he is 'really disappointed' that his knee injury has ruled him out of the rest of the season but has vowed to 'come back stronger', and has thanked fans for their kind messages.
The midfielder suffered the setback in the 3-0 win over Bournemouth earlier this month after bearing the brunt of a Marcos Senesi challenge just before half-time. An emotional Van de Beek left the pitch tearful and Erik ten Hag confirmed post-match that the issue was “not looking good”.
The manager confirmed in Friday’s press conference ahead of Manchester City that the Dutchman was out for the rest of the season but that he expects him back for pre-season given his injury does not consist of a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
READ MORE: Van de Beek out for the season
"Yes, it is his knee,” Ten Hag said. “On the long-term, it is looking really good, he will be back for the start of pre-season. The rest of the season he is out.
"I think everyone was really, thoughts are with him, it is terrible when you are in a middle of a season and you get a bad tackle, bad injury, it is always really disappointing and thoughts, your feelings are with the player, you express that.
"Our group did that really well and we are now happy his knee on the long-term is good. Donny is also happy with that. But in the same moments, there are mixed feelings and disappointment he is out of this season.”
Taking to Instagram a few hours later, Van de Beek - who made just four starts this season - thanked United fans for their support and well wishes, pledging to be raring to go upon his return.
Sharing a photograph of him in a hospital bed, he wrote: “I am really disappointed that the season is over for me. After successful surgery, it’s time to start my recovery process and will do everything to come back stronger for this club.
"Thank you all for the lovely messages, they mean a lot to me and my family.”
Among those reacting to the post was Scott McTominay, who said: “Quick recovery my brother.” Alejandro Garancho sent a number of love-heart emojis while Sevilla-loaned Alex Telles commented: “Doonnyyy [love-heart emoji] GET WELL SOON.”
Also sending their well were international colleagues Frenkie de Jong and Steven Bergwijn, with the official Instagram account of Ajax - Van de Beek’s former club - writing: “Stay strong, Don!”
READ NEXT:
