Matthijs de Ligt making serious progress but still not ready for Tottenham clash

Manchester United have received another positive update on Matthijs de Ligt’s recovery, with the Dutch defender continuing to make encouraging progress from his long-term back injury.

De Ligt has been working his way back to full fitness after undergoing surgery earlier this year, having been sidelined for almost 10 months. The centre-back has returned to training and has recently stepped up his work at Carrington, including individual sessions on the grass.

However, despite the positive signs, De Ligt is not expected to be fit enough to make the Manchester United squad for the Premier League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur on October 10, immediately after the upcoming international break.

Michael Carrick has been cautious with the defender’s return, explaining that De Ligt is still working his way back and that the club does not want to put a firm timeframe on his comeback given the length and nature of the injury.

The fact that De Ligt travelled with United for the recent trip to Fulham was nevertheless another encouraging step. He ultimately wasn’t included in the matchday squad, highlighting that United are continuing to take a careful approach rather than rushing him back into competitive football.

Leeds could be the target

If his rehabilitation continues without any setbacks, the October 18 Premier League trip to Leeds United could potentially be an opportunity for De Ligt to return to the squad.

United are scheduled to face Leeds at Elland Road on Sunday, October 18, giving De Ligt another week beyond the Tottenham fixture to build up his fitness.

There is still no guarantee that he will be available for that match, but his continued progress will be closely monitored over the international break.

After such a lengthy absence, United’s priority will be making sure De Ligt is fully ready before throwing him back into Premier League action. For now, the signs are positive, with the defender edging closer to a long-awaited return.