It’s been three months since Matthijs de Ligt last played for Manchester United, and fans are worried about the Dutch defender. The 26-year-old has been sidelined with a back injury, and Michael Carrick recently suggested he isn’t close to returning.
De Ligt was one of United’s standout performers until the problem occurred. He remains the Red Devils’ star, having won the most aerial duels (50) despite being absent for such a long period.
In his absence, Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have forged a formidable partnership under Carrick. The pair have been the English coach’s preferred duo in central defence, although he hasn’t had De Ligt available.
De Ligt injury woes
Carrick spoke ahead of Manchester United’s clash with Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Sunday. He gave an update on De Ligt when speaking to BBC Sport:
“Matthijs has had a back issue which has been a bit slow to progress. The nature of the injury means it’s a difficult one to pin down time wise. He’s definitely improving though.”
De Ligt was a mainstay in Ruben Amorim’s team before the back injury halted his season. He played every single minute of each of his 13 league games, scoring a vital equaliser in a 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur in early November.
The Dutchman joined United from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024, reuniting with his former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag. Their reunion lasted just two months, and Amorim took over in November.
De Ligt did encounter a foot and knee injury last season, which prevented him from featuring in key games. He missed the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
The back injury has been a massive problem for the player and the club, given how important he was at the start of the season. Some supporters think there has long been an underlying issue.
‘Bayern knew’
Many United fans have thrown out theories regarding De Ligt and his injury problems. Some believe that Bayern knew that there were deeper problems regarding the Dutchman which led to his sale.
One fan wrote on X:
“Looks like De Ligt is completely f**ked then going forward. His back is crooked. It’s like Bayern knew what they were doing when they sold him and Utd took the risk and it hasn’t paid off. You’ll probably only get 10 games per season from the lad. Shame, because he’s quality.”
Another responded by pointing out previous players who left Bayern for United:
“Same with Owen Hargreaves and Schweinsteiger. Bayern are a smart club.”
One is worrying about De Ligt’s future:
“I absolutely love Matthijs De Ligt but his injury issues are starting to worry me.”
Another suggested INEOS might need to consider making a new defensive signing:
“De Ligt situation definitely has to be brought into consideration for summer plans. The kind of back issue he has is so unpredictable and so unfortunate.”
De Ligt joined United from Bayern for £38.5m two summers ago and he has since made 56 appearances. The Dutch star has just over three years on his contract with the Reds and will be eager to return before the season ends ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
Do Man Utd need to replace De Ligt?
Talk of United delving into the transfer market and signing a new centre-back this summer stemmed from Maguire’s future. The veteran English defender’s contract expires in June but his crucial performances have led to suggestions he has earned an extension.
If a new centre-back does arrive at Old Trafford it might well be as a result of De Ligt’s injury struggles. The Reds are linked with Newcastle United’s Malick Thiaw while Gambian youngster Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh is reportedly of interest.
United are well stocked in central defence, making a big-money acquistion unlikely. Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredricson are Carrick’s other options
All three are young and if a De Ligt replacement is desired, the club might prefer a more experienced profile. Bringing a high-profile name in might depend on Champions League qualification as the priority is at least one new midfielder.
