Matthijs de Ligt Set for Manchester United Return After Back Injury
Matthijs de Ligt is nearing a Manchester United return after a back injury that has kept the Dutch centre-back out of competitive football since November 2025, with the club expecting him to become available after the current international break.
De Ligt recovery at a glance
| Item | Date or status | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Injury absence began | November 2025 | Persistent back problem |
| Surgery | May 2026 | Ended World Cup hopes after six months of treatment |
| Potential United return | After international break | Back in training at Carrington |
| Next Premier League fixture | October 10 | Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United |
De Ligt spent roughly six months attempting to resolve the issue through treatment and rehabilitation before electing to have an operation in May. The procedure ruled him out of the 2026 World Cup and extended an already difficult spell on the sidelines.
When confirming the decision earlier this year, the former Ajax captain said surgery had become the remaining route after months of work to return. He also expressed frustration at being unable to help United and at losing the opportunity to play at the World Cup.
The 27-year-old has now resumed work at Carrington and is making encouraging physical progress. Although a place against Tottenham cannot yet be considered certain, his return to group training has put a first appearance since the injury within reach.
United manager Michael Carrick also expects winger Amad Diallo to have trained with the squad by the time the players return from international duty. Speaking after the 1-1 draw with Fulham, Carrick said Amad was close to joining the group and added that De Ligt was continuing his work towards full fitness.
De Ligt’s recovery is being followed closely by Netherlands manager Xavi ahead of Nations League matches against Germany, Serbia and Greece. The national-team coach said he had maintained contact with both the player and Manchester United during the rehabilitation process.
Xavi also said he had recently spoken with Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons, stressing the importance of having leading players available. De Ligt, he said, has endured a hard period but remains an important figure who could have a significant role for the Netherlands going forward.
A successful return for United would give Carrick an experienced option in central defence and would strengthen De Ligt’s case for inclusion in the next Netherlands squad. For now, the immediate target is to complete his fitness work after the international break and regain match sharpness in the Premier League.
