Legendary Keeper Questions Manchester United's Scouting Oversight
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has voiced his bewilderment at his former club's apparent failure to identify and pursue Micky van de Ven before the defender's move to Tottenham Hotspur. The Danish goalkeeping icon, speaking as a pundit for Viaplay, singled out the Dutch centre-back for special praise while questioning why Premier League rivals like United and Liverpool did not spot his potential earlier.
Van de Ven's Rise at Tottenham
Micky van de Ven is currently enjoying his third full season with Tottenham Hotspur, having completed a transfer from German side Wolfsburg for approximately £35 million back in 2023. During his time in North London, the 24-year-old Netherlands international has made 81 appearances across all competitions, playing a crucial role in helping Spurs end their trophy drought by winning the Europa League last season.
Despite Tottenham's inconsistent league form this campaign, Van de Ven continues to impress observers with his composed performances at the heart of Thomas Frank's defence, where he partners Argentine World Cup winner Cristian Romero. His recent absence due to a minor injury has highlighted his importance to the team, though manager Frank has confirmed he expects the defender to be available for this weekend's crucial clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Schmeichel's Analysis of Van de Ven's Qualities
Schmeichel, who made over 350 appearances for Manchester United between 1991 and 1999, was particularly effusive in his assessment of Van de Ven's attributes. 'I think he is a fantastic player,' the legendary goalkeeper stated. 'He's got really, really great instincts, and his pace, his speed, is so valuable if you want to play attacking football.'
The former Denmark international elaborated on why Van de Ven's specific skill set is so valuable in modern football: 'Playing attacking football means you have to be further up the pitch, which requires defenders who can cover space behind them. If you've got slow centre-backs, it becomes very difficult to implement that style effectively.'
Questioning Major Clubs' Scouting Networks
What particularly puzzled Schmeichel was how a player of Van de Ven's obvious quality seemingly escaped the attention of Manchester United's and Liverpool's recruitment teams before his move to Tottenham. 'I think he's been a revelation,' Schmeichel added. 'I sometimes wonder about clubs like Manchester United or even Liverpool, the defending champions - they're constantly looking for that type of player. How did they not spot this guy? He's a fantastic player.'
Van de Ven has demonstrated his attacking threat this season too, scoring six goals including a memorable solo effort against Copenhagen where he collected the ball deep in his own half, surged through midfield, and finished clinically with his left foot.
Injury Update Ahead of Manchester United Clash
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank provided reassurance about Van de Ven's fitness following Sunday's 2-2 draw with Manchester City, confirming the defender's absence was precautionary. 'Micky is a minor one,' Frank told reporters. 'I fully expect him to be available for Manchester United, he just couldn't make it for this game unfortunately.'
The Spurs boss also provided updates on other injured players, revealing that Kevin Danso suffered a hyper-extended big toe against Frankfurt that has damaged ligaments, while Djed Spence has a minor calf issue. Captain Cristian Romero, who was substituted at half-time against City, has confirmed he is 'okay' after the match.
This weekend's encounter at Old Trafford presents Van de Ven with the perfect opportunity to demonstrate exactly why Schmeichel believes Manchester United should have pursued him more aggressively before his Tottenham transfer. The Dutch defender's combination of defensive solidity, recovery pace, and occasional goal threat makes him exactly the type of modern centre-back that top clubs increasingly covet in today's game.
