De Ligt gives clarification over vaccine comments, says he intends to get fully vaccinated

The centre back took to social media on Saturday and stated he was in favour of everyone taking the vaccine.

De Ligt had commented on Friday that the vaccine was not mandatory as it ran a risk of causing an infection.

Netherlands defender Matthijs de Ligt beat a retreat after saying one of the vaccinations available against the novel coronavirus could lead to infection, in comments that drew a volley of criticism.

The 21-year-old Juventus centre back took to social media on Saturday to say he fully intended to get vaccinated.

In my recent interview, I was not clear with my response. In order to clear any doubts: I am absolutely in favour of the COVID-19 vaccination and will take it as soon as possible.

— Matthijs de Ligt (@mdeligt_04) May 29, 2021

 

De Ligt had told television reporters on Friday: "The vaccine was not compulsory and I feel that you need to be the boss of your body. There is always a risk of infection, and I have heard that you can be infected by one of the vaccines." His comments sparked a storm of criticism on social media.

Up to six Dutch squad members turned down the chance to be vaccinated last week during a mini training camp in the Netherlands, coach Frank de Boer said.

He did not name any players but in subsequent interviews with Euro 2020 squad members, the question of being vaccinated was raised repeatedly.