Manchester United have confirmed Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery on a back issue.The Dutch centre-back has made only 16 appearances for United this season and has not featured since a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on November 30.United confirmed on Friday that a corrective procedure had been deemed to be the best course of action for the 26-year-old, who will miss Netherlands campaign at the World Cup as a result.But De Ligt is staying upbeat as he targets a return early in the 26-27 season for United.Since November I have done everything, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football, De Ligt told Uniteds official website.I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible.De Ligt also posted on his Instagram account: After six months of treatment and working hard to get back, surgery was the only option left. Im disappointed I couldnt help the team the last six 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. Topics 2026 FIFA World Cup Manchester United F.C. Netherlands National Football Team Premier League Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Newcastle v West Ham: Line-ups, stats and preview as Hammers aim to pile pressure on Spurs Nicholas McGee 15th May, 2026 Reports of permanent role premature, says Carrick, as Manchester United prepare to say goodbye to Casemiro Jon Fisher 15th May, 2026 Manchester United v Nottingham Forest: Line-ups, stats and preview for Carricks final home audition Nicholas McGee 15th May, 2026 Seamus Coleman to end Everton playing career after 17 years Nicholas McGee 15th May, 2026 Premier League Predictions: Frustration for Liverpool, joy for Manchester United and Arsenal rack up a cricket score Jon Fisher 15th May, 2026 World Cup 2026: France squad named as Les Bleus look to reclaim crown Mitch Fretton 14th May, 2026
