Dutchman De Ligt will miss the World Cup after back surgery

Matthijs de Ligt will miss the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign after undergoing back surgery due to an injury that has kept him out since November.

The expectation is that the Manchester United defender will only return in the early stages of next season.

«Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery for a back injury,» United said in a statement on Friday.

“After working diligently throughout his rehabilitation process, it was determined that a corrective procedure was the best course of action.”

De Ligt had started this season on a positive note, playing every minute of United’s first thirteen Premier League games, until injury halted his progress.

“Since November I have done everything I can, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love: playing football,” said the former Juventus and Bayern Munich centre-back.

“I am grateful to everyone who supported me during 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.”

Published on May 15, 2026