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Matthijs De Ligt Undergoes Back Surgery, Will Miss 2026 World Cup

Manchester United expect the defender to return for the 2026/27 season.

Overview

  • Manchester United confirmed Friday that the 26-year-old center back had a corrective procedure to address a persistent back problem.
  • De Ligt said on Instagram that six months of rehab left surgery as the only option and he voiced disappointment about missing the World Cup.
  • He has been out since November 30 against Crystal Palace after an initial one-week timeline stretched into a six-month absence.
  • He started the season in strong form and won United’s November Player of the Month award before the injury limited him to 13 Premier League games.
  • Reports say the target is a return for the 2026/27 campaign with United, a boost as the club prepares for a Champions League season.