After seven months sidelined, the Dutch powerhouse eyes a 2026 return to anchor Michael Carrick’s defense as the Red Devils prepare for their long-awaited Champions League comeback.
Should United Give De Ligt another chance
Since Manchester United signed Matthijs De Ligt from Juventus in the summer of 2025, for a reasonable £45 million, he has flourished giving Man United much needed stability defensively.
One issue that the Dutch centre half has struggled with however has been maintaining fitness and being prone to injury, with his current back injury having ruled him out from late November with his last game being a victory away at Crystal Palace
De Ligt did manage to play 42 games for the Red Devils last year with his first year in England having to be deemed a failure ultimately as the club went trophyless and United had their worst finish in their Premier League history, however things did look more positive when United started this season much more brightly.
De Ligt has yet to be available for Michael Carrick with the interim, soon to be permanent, manager having defensive injuries and suspensions plaguing his tenure with Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire having also been unavailable at times during Carrick's tenure.
De Ligt "determined" to return to United
United fans have been provided an update by the club, with the Red Devils announcing that Matthijs De Ligt has completed successfull back surgery, with the club anticipating the Dutchman's return for the start of 26/27 season.
De Ligt has voiced his frustrations over his injury that has kept him out for the best part of seven months, “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", said De Ligt.
He also spoke about how important the United medical staff have been in his recovery.
“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.”
How important can De Ligt be for United
Next season feels very promising for De Ligt and United as a whole, with the club returning to the highest stage of European football, the Champions League, for the first time in three years, and the club overall having a much more positive mood, with a better transfer strategy leading this rise.
De Ligt brings experience from playing at the highest level, with three clubs that are arguably the biggest in their countries: Bayern Munich, Juventus, and his homegrown club, Ajax.
This could be vital for a United side that has not been as exposed to the high-pressure environments the Champions League can bring.