Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has told Donny van de Beek he will not get special treatment just because of their history together at Ajax.
Van de Beek has struggled to establish himself at Old Trafford since arriving from the Dutch side, formerly managed by Ten Hag, and he spent part of last season on loan at Everton.
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Back at United this summer, it has been billed as a positive for Van de Beek that Ten Hag has been installed as manager -- particularly after the midfielder played a key role for Ajax during their run to the Champions League semifinals in 2019.
But the new United boss insists he won't be handing out favours to the 25-year-old when it comes to picking his team.
"It's the same for every player, he has to do it by himself," Ten Hag said.
"Me as a manager and the coaching staff around him can do everything to set the right conditions so he can perform, but in the end the player has to do it by himself.
"They have to take responsibility for their performance. Donny has the capability. I have seen it, but he has to prove himself."
Van de Beek arrived at the club for £35 million in 2020 but struggled for opportunities in his first season and made just four Premier League starts.
It was the same story the following season and the midfielder eventually moved to Everton on loan in January. A lack of game time since leaving Ajax has also seen Van de Beek lose his place in the Netherlands squad ahead of the World Cup in Qatar later this year.
He says he's happy to be reunited with Ten Hag but admits he will have to impress his old boss all over again.
"He's still the same, he will not change as a manager," Van de Beek said.
"I see a lot of the same things as at Ajax, I think he can help the team a lot.
"Of course, it's important you have a good manager but in the end, the players have to do it. We work hard every day, sometimes twice a day, we're making steps but we're not there yet.
"I can play as a 10, but also an eight. One of my strengths is to come in the box, make a goal or give an assist, but I like to be on the ball as well. I have to play where the team needs me."