Donny Van de Beek should never have joined Manchester United, claims Marco Van Basten

The Dutch midfielder has struggled for game time since a £35.7m move from Ajax

Donny van de Beek has struggled for game time at United (Getty Images)

Donny van de Beek should never have joined Manchester United, according to Netherlands legend Marco van Basten. 

The Dutch midfielder signed for United from Ajax this summer in a deal worth £35.7 million.

But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has preferred other midfield options so far this season, with Van de Beek struggling for opportunities and rhythm.

With just four substitute appearances in the Premier League and failing to see the pitch in the 0-0 draw against Chelsea on Saturday, Van Basten is concerned and believes his compatriot made a mistake moving to Old Trafford.

"Donny shouldn't have gone to United. When you're a good player you want to play every week," British media quoted Van Basten as telling Dutch TV channel Ziggo Sport.

"It's really bad for a player like Donny to play six or seven games this year. That's shocking for your rhythm.

"I know he's earning loads more than he used to. But as a top player you have to be critical and look at the chances of playing when you sign for a new club. Donny should have waited for better prospects and signed for another club."

Former United defender Patrice Evra said after the Chelsea game that United did not need Van de Beek.

"That's the truth," the Frenchman told Sky Sports. "Nothing against the kid, but why have we bought him? He's watching from the stand every game."

Evra's former team mate Gary Neville added that he was baffled by Van de Beek's lack of matches.

"He must be thinking, 'what am I doing here?'," Neville said.

Reuters contributed to this report