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Source: Goal.com
Summary
Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has undergone surgery to address a persistent back injury, ending his season and World Cup hopes. He has been sidelined since November and will now face an extended period of rehabilitation. The club confirmed the decision was made in the player’s best interests after intensive recovery work failed to yield the necessary results.
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The game followed a familiar script.
De Ligt’s season and World Cup dreams were crushed by a persistent back injury. He’s been out since November, and despite returning to light training, surgery was the only option left. He’s now facing an extended period of rehab, ruling him out of the World Cup.
This one felt recognizable early. Back injuries can be frustrating and unpredictable, and De Ligt’s case is no exception. He’s been working hard to get back, but it’s clear that surgery was the only logical path forward.
The result wasn’t surprising by the end. De Ligt’s been out for months, and it’s no secret that back injuries can be tough to overcome. He’s now looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again.
De Ligt’s absence leaves United with a depleted defensive lineup, and the focus now shifts to the 2026-27 season. It’s a cruel blow for the defender, who’s still waiting to make his mark under Michael Carrick.
This one rewrites the script: “Back injuries are a cruel mistress, and sometimes surgery is the only way to tame her.”
