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Ritchie De LaetBelgian footballer, defender
Date of Birth: 28.11.1988
Country:  Belgium |
Content:
- Early Career
- Transfer to Stoke City and Loan Spells
- Manchester United Acquisition
- Reserve Team Experience
- Premier League Debut
Early Career
Belgian defender Ritchie de Laet started his professional journey with Antwerp in his home country.
Transfer to Stoke City and Loan Spells
In 2007, de Laet crossed the English Channel to join Stoke City for £100,000. After a brief trial with Bournemouth, he spent a month on loan at Wrexham, featuring in three matches before an operation to remove a hernia.
Manchester United Acquisition
On January 8, 2009, Manchester United lured de Laet to Old Trafford on a three-year contract. The transfer fee was performance-based, payable to Stoke City upon de Laet's contribution to United.
Reserve Team Experience
Initially, de Laet showcased his versatility by playing in various defensive positions for United's reserve team.
Premier League Debut
De Laet finally donned the red of Manchester United's first team on May 24, 2009. He played the entire match as a left-back in the final game of the 2008/09 Premier League season against Hull City.
