Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has suffered a devastating setback. A persistent back injury has ended his season and crushed his World Cup dreams.
The Dutch international has not played since November. He recently resumed light training, but his condition worsened. Surgery became the only option.
United confirmed the procedure was successful. The club explained that extensive rehabilitation efforts failed to deliver progress, and surgery was necessary to protect his long-term fitness.
De Ligt took to social media to share his pain. His words were heavy.
“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.”
He pushed through multiple recovery attempts since November. But in the end, he had to accept the truth. His body needed more time. The World Cup in North America will happen without him.
United manager Michael Carrick had hoped De Ligt could return before the season ended. But he always stressed caution. Now the team will rely on Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, and Ayden Heaven to finish the season.
Fans have flooded social media with messages of support. One person wrote: “This is heartbreaking. He fought so hard.” Another said: “His health comes first. The World Cup will wait.”
Someone else added: “De Ligt is a warrior. He will come back stronger.”
