Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has delivered a sobering update on the fitness of defender Matthijs de Ligt, admitting there is no guarantee the Dutch international will feature again this season. The centre-back has been sidelined since late November due to a persistent back issue, missing over four months of action.
Injury Timeline and Current Status
De Ligt last played for United on November 30, 2025, in a 2-1 victory away at Crystal Palace under former manager Ruben Amorim. Since then, the club has undergone significant changes, including Carrick's appointment, but De Ligt's recovery has stalled. The 26-year-old remains unavailable as United prepare for their Premier League fixture against Bournemouth on Friday, with the team currently third in the table and chasing Champions League qualification.
Carrick's Candid Assessment
"Frustrating for Matta," Carrick stated. "He's obviously trying to work towards getting back, but it's just the back issue really that's proving difficult. We'll keep working as hard as we can to get him back as quick as we can." The manager emphasised the unpredictable nature of back injuries, noting, "It's one of those things with backs that sometimes you think it's all right and then all of a sudden it's not quite right."
Carrick refused to speculate on whether De Ligt might require surgery, saying, "I don't want to get into that at this stage. I think we'll obviously try and do whatever we can to help Matta and help get him back and whatever that takes." However, he acknowledged the uncertainty, adding, "Honestly, it's difficult to say just because it's taken that much time. I can't give you any more on it really."
Impact on World Cup Hopes
The prolonged absence has severely jeopardised De Ligt's chances of representing the Netherlands at the upcoming World Cup. With the tournament approaching, his lack of match fitness and ongoing health concerns make selection increasingly unlikely. United sources have told the Press Association that the club aims to have him back before the season concludes, but the quiet schedule means he is guaranteed to be out until at least mid-April.
Defensive Reshuffle and Maguire's Resurgence
De Ligt's injury has been compounded by the absence of fellow centre-back Lisandro Martinez, forcing Carrick to reshuffle his defensive options. In their place, Harry Maguire has stepped up impressively, starting every match since Carrick took charge. The 33-year-old's form has sparked talk of a potential England recall under manager Thomas Tuchel and discussions about extending his contract at Old Trafford beyond the summer.
"Harry's done fantastic for us," Carrick praised. "I think it's pretty obvious to say that. He's had a big impact on what we've done, so we'll have to see." The manager also confirmed that talks are ongoing regarding squad planning for next season, with both Maguire's future and his own contract situation up in the air.
Patience and Uncertainty
Carrick concluded by urging patience, stating, "We're just kind of being patient and working through it. We'll just have to see. We'll obviously give him time, but trying to get him back as quick as we can, but it's really difficult to say. I'm not trying to hide anything. Literally at the moment we don't know so we'll have to wait and see."
As United continue their push for a top-four finish, the uncertainty surrounding De Ligt's return adds another layer of complexity to their campaign, with fans and management alike hoping for a positive resolution before the season's end.
