Matthijs de Ligt has revealed that back surgery was the only remaining option after six grueling months of failed rehabilitation. The Manchester United defender shared the news on social media, confirming he will miss the upcoming World Cup with the Netherlands but expects to return in time for the 2026/27 season.
The 26-year-old initially picked up the problem following United's November 30 victory over Crystal Palace. What was first diagnosed as a minor complaint expected to sideline him for just one week escalated into a chronic issue. Despite extensive physiotherapy and alternative treatments, the pain persisted, forcing the medical team to opt for a corrective surgical procedure. The club confirmed on May 15, 2026, that the operation was a success.
In an emotional Instagram post, De Ligt told supporters: 'After 6 months of treatments and hard work to get back in shape, the surgery was the only option left. I am disappointed that I couldn't help the team in the last 6 months and obviously to not be able to participate in the World Cup, but I expect to do everything to get back on the pitch in front of the fans and feel better again.' He added on United's official channels: 'Since November I have done everything, pushing myself to the maximum in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football. I am grateful to everyone who has 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 fans as soon as possible.'
De Ligt's frustration is compounded by his excellent form prior to the injury. He had been voted Manchester United's Player of the Month for November, finally showing the consistency that had eluded him since leaving Ajax. The injury arrived at the worst possible moment, just as he appeared to be turning a corner and silencing his critics.
The announcement prompted an outpouring of support from across the football world. Dutch compatriots such as Denzel Dumfries and Bayern Munich's Dayot Upamecano sent messages of encouragement. Several former Juventus teammates also rallied behind him, including Weston McKennie, Juan Cuadrado, and Paulo Dybala, while Manuel Locatelli, Dusan Vlahovic, and Sami Khedira showed solidarity with likes on social media.
Missing the 2026 World Cup in North America is a bitter pill for the Oranje defender, who will have to watch from afar as his nation competes without him. De Ligt had been an integral part of the Dutch setup, and his absence leaves a significant hole in the backline.
De Ligt's career has been a rollercoaster since his breakthrough at Ajax, where he captained the side to a Champions League semifinal at just 19 years old. A €80 million move to Juventus in 2019 promised to be the next step for one of Europe's most coveted defenders, but three years in Turin yielded only sporadic flashes of his undeniable potential despite winning Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Supercoppa titles.
A switch to Bayern Munich in 2022 offered a fresh start, yet after a strong debut campaign his playing time dwindled, and he became surplus to requirements by the summer of 2024. Manchester United secured his signature for around €45 million plus add-ons, but his first season in England mirrored the inconsistency that had plagued his post-Ajax career. The 2025/26 campaign began with renewed hope, only for the back problem to interrupt his momentum.
Now, with successful surgery behind him, De Ligt faces another rehabilitation period but remains determined to return at full strength. Manchester United, who are set to return to the Champions League next season, will need his leadership and defensive prowess. The club's medical staff are optimistic that the procedure has finally addressed the root cause of his pain.
For De Ligt, the long road back offers a chance to shed the label of unfulfilled promise and become the reliable stalwart that so many expected. At 26, he still has prime years ahead, and a fully fit De Ligt could be a transformative figure for both club and country. The 2026/27 season cannot come soon enough for a player desperate to rewrite the narrative of his career.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.