Matthijs de Ligt releases statement after not being seen in Man Utd squad for five months

Manchester United have provided an update on Matthijs de Ligt's fitness, with the defender also making a statement of his own.

De Ligt played every minute of every Premier League game until the end of November before a back injury sidelined him for what was assumed to be a short period of time.

United's manager at the time, Ruben Amorim, said De Ligt had a 'small' issue during a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace and expected him back for a trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers at the start of December.

The 26-year-old hasn't featured in a first-team squad since, meaning he's not been available for selection during Michael Carrick's entire tenure as head coach.

De Ligt has been at the club's Carrington training complex in recent weeks, although he was still far away from a first-team return.

United have since confirmed the Netherlands international has undergone a 'corrective procedure' to address a back injury. De Ligt will miss the remainder of this season and is likely to return in the 'early stages' of the next campaign.

An official statement reads: "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. De Ligt will now begin a new phase of his recovery and is expected to return for United in the early stages of the 2026/27 season."

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De Ligt addresses supporters after surgery

Shortly after United's statement, De Ligt shared a picture of himself sitting up in a hospital bed on Instagram along with his own thoughts.

He confirmed he won't be eligible for the Netherlands at this summer's World Cup and apologised to United supporters for being unavailable in 2026.

De Ligt said: "After 6 months of treatment and working hard to get back, surgery was the only option left.

"I’m disappointed I couldn’t help the team the last 6 months and obviously missing out on the World Cup, but I am looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again."

Under Carrick, United have shifted away from playing a back three and his two centre-backs of choice are Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez.

Maguire's performances in 2026 have earned him a new contract at the club, while Martinez remains popular with supporters.

Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro have deputised. Noussair Mazraoui even filled in at the back during last month's 1-0 win over Chelsea due to an injury and suspension crisis.