De Ligt's mysterious back issue baffles Manchester United. Despite assurances, the defender's complex condition sidelines him indefinitely, raising season-ending concerns.
Is De Ligt good enough for Man Utd?
Matthijs de Ligt played every single one of Manchester United's first 13 Premier League games, and at that point, was an early contender for the club's Player of the Season.
But, following a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at the end of November, the Dutchman was not included in the squads, although then-head coach Rúben Amorim assured that it was just a minor problem.
Fast forward to the end of March, and there is still no definitive news on De Ligt's return to action. It has been stated that he is suffering from a back issue, although there have been no further details since.
United have a number of centre-backs who have suffered injuries this season, with Lisandro MartÃnez and Harry Maguire both facing spells out, which has prompted a conversation about whether United need fresh signings in the department this summer.
De Ligt still hopes to play this season
Last week, United boss Michael Carrick admitted that he could not give an answer to whether the 26-year-old would actually be able to return to action before the end of the season.
While the likes of Patrick Dorgu and MartÃnez will play a part in the final games of the campaign, there is no certainty that De Ligt will follow suit.
According to The Sun, the player himself remains hopeful that he will be able to return to the field before the season comes to a close.
However, bizarrely, it's also noted that the issue De Ligt has been facing with his back is not a muscular problem, and that sources within the club have stated it is much more complicated than first thought.
It's also been said that even those internally are unable to put a definitive timeline or return date for the player.
Does De Ligt have one season to prove himself?
During his two seasons of actual game-time at Old Trafford, De Ligt has been fantastic. In his first campaign, fans were touting him as a possible future captain of the club.
But, after his stellar run at the beginning of the season, De Ligt has now found himself right at the bottom of the pecking order for the centre-back position.
With United employing two of the most exciting young centre-backs in England in Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, as well as the growing partnership of MartÃnez and Harry Maguire, De Ligt faces a huge uphill battle.
If the decorated defender cannot prove himself as a reliable and consistent option across next season, he could find himself out the door by the 2027 summer transfer window.