A baffling, non-muscular injury sidelines Matthijs de Ligt indefinitely. Hopes of a season return fade as Manchester United navigates defensive challenges.
Matthijs de Ligt is in the middle of what feels like a never-ending football nightmare as he continues to miss Manchester United's brilliant form under Michael Carrick.
The Dutchman joined United in 2024 for around £35 million and was brilliant at points under Rúben Amorim, having started United's first 13 Premier League fixtures this season, although he has not played since the end of November.
De Ligt suffered what was initially described as a minor back problem towards the back end of 2025, with many assuming he would be back in action before the turn of the year.
However, fast-forward to April 2026, and there is no timescale for his return to action, with the only confirmed reports stating that the 26-year-old is not suffering from a muscle problem.
De Ligt handed fresh injury update
While it has been reported that De Ligt is hopeful he will play again this season, it's becoming increasingly unlikely.
This is according to a fresh report from The Sun, where is it said that it is "it is doubtful" that the Dutch international will be back before the season ends.
The report reiterates that De Ligt is still aiming to step back onto the grass before the end of the campaign, but with just seven games remaining, this is becoming more fantasy than reality.
The defender is clearly remaining mobile, as he is regularly spotted walking around Hale village, which is close to home, although he is not doing any on-grass training.
What do United do without De Ligt?
While De Ligt remains out, the club are eagerly anticipating the return of Lisandro Martínez to duty following his calf problem. There have been many questions about Martínez's long-term reliability, but in the short term, he is fantastic.
However, Harry Maguire is facing at least a one-game ban for the red card he suffered against Bournemouth, with the potential for further punishment after he was charged with improper conduct following the sending off two weeks ago.
With Maguire and De Ligt both unavailable, Leny Yoro has stepped up well in their absence. Initially joining the starting XI under Michael Carrick amid Martínez's injury, Yoro could end up being a brilliant partner for the Argentina international.
While Martínez loves plating with the ball at his feet and the game ahead of him, Yoro thrives in recovery and last-ditch defending, making them a duo that could complement each other ahead of goalkeeper Senne Lammens.