It is now official that Matthijs de Ligt will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup after undergoing back surgery on Friday, 15th May 2026.
Softfootball believes this comes after six months of treatment and hard work, with the defender expressing sadness over not being able to help Manchester United FC during that period.
This was his statement:
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’m looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again!
While he was away, a lot happened at Manchester United, including the sack of Ruben Amorim, with Michael Carrick appointed as temporary manager. Carrick is now expected to be made the permanent manager at the end of the season.
