In a devastating blow to both Manchester United and the Netherlands national team, center-back Matthijs de Ligt has been ruled out of the 2026 World Cup after undergoing successful back surgery. The 26-year-old defender had been battling a chronic back problem for months, but ultimately conceded that an operation was the only path forward.
De Ligt hasn't featured for the Red Devils since their victory at Crystal Palace on November 30, a game that now feels like a distant memory. Initially, then-manager Ruben Amorim downplayed the issue, calling it a "minor setback" and expecting the Dutchman to return for the next home fixture against West Ham. That return never materialized.
Current boss Michael Carrick repeatedly insisted the club wasn't considering surgery, but De Ligt's latest attempt to resume running at Carrington training ground last month ended without the hoped-for progress. The club's official statement confirmed the decision: "Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery to address a back injury. Having diligently worked throughout his rehabilitation process, the decision was made that a corrective procedure was the best course of action."
The timing couldn't be worse. The Netherlands kick off their World Cup campaign against Japan on June 14, and United have confirmed they don't expect De Ligt back until the "early stages of the 2026-27 season." That timeline excludes pre-season, which begins with a trip to Helsinki to face Wrexham on July 18, though he may travel with the squad for continued rehab.
"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," De Ligt said in a heartfelt statement. "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."
For United fans, this is a tough pill to swallow—a key defensive pillar sidelined just when the team needs him most. For football lovers everywhere, it's a reminder that even the game's brightest stars aren't immune to the long, hard road of injury recovery.