Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has undergone surgery to address a back injury that has significantly impacted his season. The Netherlands international has been sidelined since the victory over Crystal Palace at the end of November. Initially, it was hoped he would return the following week, but a complex back issue has kept him out of the team since then, with no role under manager Michael Carrick.
The former Ajax, Juventus, and Bayern Munich star has not even trained with his teammates for six months. The club confirmed on Thursday that de Ligt has undergone ‘successful’ surgery. He will miss the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign, with United stating that he hopes to return to action in the early stages of the 2026-27 season.
“After six months of treatment and working hard to get back, surgery was the only option left,” de Ligt wrote on Instagram. “I’m disappointed I couldn’t help the team the last six months and obviously missing out on the World Cup, but I am looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again.”
De Ligt was an outstanding defender for Manchester United during the first half of the season, playing every minute of every game before the injury struck. He joined the club from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth £42 million.
In de Ligt’s absence, Harry Maguire has taken over as the leading centre-half for United. Maguire missed over two months of action in the first half of the campaign but has been rewarded with a contract extension last month. Lisandro Martinez has been his partner at the back when available, but the Argentina international has missed eight games under Carrick due to injury and suspension.
Ayden Heaven impressed as a stand-in for Martinez, while Leny Yoro is also among the options heading into next season. With de Ligt’s long-term absence, the defensive line will need to be re-evaluated, and new faces may step up to fill the gap.
Key Points About De Ligt’s Injury and Recovery
- De Ligt suffered a back injury that has kept him out of action for six months.
- The injury required surgical intervention, which the club described as ‘successful’.
- He will miss the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign.
- De Ligt expressed disappointment at not being able to help the team and missing the World Cup.
- He is aiming to return to action in the early stages of the 2026-27 season.
Impact on Manchester United’s Defensive Lineup
- Harry Maguire has taken over as the leading centre-half in de Ligt’s absence.
- Lisandro Martinez has been a key partner at the back but has faced multiple injuries and suspensions.
- Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro have stepped up as replacements.
- The defensive lineup will need to be restructured for the upcoming season.
Future Outlook for De Ligt
- De Ligt has been a crucial player for Manchester United, especially in the first half of the season.
- His long-term absence creates challenges for the team, but there are young players ready to step in.
- The focus now shifts to his recovery and eventual return to the pitch.
- Fans will be eager to see him back in action, contributing to the team’s success.
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