Manchester United defender Matthijs De Ligt has undergone surgery to address a persistent back problem that has sidelined him since late November. The club confirmed the operation was successful, but the 26-year-old Netherlands international is not expected to return until the early part of next season.
Extended Absence Confirmed
De Ligt will miss United's remaining two matches of this campaign, and the news extinguishes any prospect of him representing the Netherlands in this summer's World Cup. The development ends months of uncertainty surrounding his condition, after head coach Ruben Amorim initially indicated he would be out for only one game.
Last month, Amorim's successor Michael Carrick revealed that De Ligt had resumed training on the grass at Carrington and expressed hope he might feature again before the season ended. However, the injury proved more complex than anticipated, leading to the decision to undergo what has been described as a corrective procedure.
Player's Statement
De Ligt said: "Since November I have done everything, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football. I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible."
Club Announcement
United issued a statement on Friday ahead of their final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Sunday. It read: "Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery to address a back injury. Having diligently worked throughout his rehabilitation process, the decision was made that a corrective procedure was the best course of action.
"De Ligt will now begin a new phase of his recovery and is expected to return for United in the early stages of the 2026-27 season."
The 26-year-old had made an excellent start to the campaign, playing every minute of every Premier League match until the end of November, and was deservedly voted the club's Player of the Month for November by supporters. The statement added: "Everyone at Manchester United wishes Matthijs well for his recovery and will continue supporting him every step of the way."
