Maatsen Discusses Challenges of Limited Starts: A Bit Difficult at Times
Aston Villa’s young left-back Ian Maatsen opened up about the challenges of limited starting opportunities this season. He is keen to learn from his teammate Lucas Digne, who has been the first choice for the role. Maatsen has only made one start in the Premier League so far.
Maatsen’s Opportunity Amidst Competition
With Digne sidelined due to an ankle injury, Maatsen is expected to feature in the Europa League against Go Ahead Eagles. This match would mark his third consecutive start in the European competition.
- Lucas Digne: Preferred starter at left-back.
- Ian Maatsen: Limited starts with only one in the Premier League.
- Europa League Match: Opportunity for Maatsen against Go Ahead Eagles.
Learning from Experience
Maatsen recognizes the high level of competition within the team. He praised Digne as an exceptional player. “Lucas is a fantastic player with a lot of qualities,” Maatsen noted, emphasizing their positive relationship. He feels that Digne keeps him sharp and focused.
Even though he faces challenges with playing time, Maatsen expressed confidence in his abilities. He reassured fans that he is always prepared when called upon. “Whenever my minutes are coming, I’m ready to perform and show my qualities,” he stated.
Reflections on Development
After joining Aston Villa for £35 million in the summer of 2024, Maatsen played in 17 of the team’s 57 games last season. He admitted that building consistency during this period has been difficult.
However, the Netherlands international highlighted his progress under manager Unai Emery. “Sometimes it is a bit difficult to find rhythm,” he explained. Maatsen has focused on improving his defensive skills during training sessions and feels more confident in executing Emery’s defensive strategies.
| Player | Current Role | Start Count |
|---|---|---|
| Lucas Digne | Starting left-back | Limited due to injury |
| Ian Maatsen | Deputy left-back | One in Premier League, multiple in Europa League |
Maatsen’s determination to improve and adapt shows his commitment to the team despite facing challenges with limited starts. He continues to cultivate his skills, poised for the moments when his opportunity arises.
