In a devastating blow to both club and country, Matthijs de Ligt has been ruled out of this summer's World Cup after undergoing back surgery. The Manchester United center-back's absence marks a significant setback for the Netherlands as they prepare for football's biggest stage.

Manchester United confirmed that the operation was the final resort after a grueling six-month recovery process failed to yield results. De Ligt hasn't stepped onto the pitch since November 30, 2025, making his World Cup participation a long shot even before this announcement. "After six months of treatment and hard work, surgery was the only option left," the 26-year-old shared on Instagram, reflecting the frustration of an athlete watching his season slip away.

This news hits especially hard given De Ligt's pedigree on the international stage. A mainstay for the Oranje, he has been a key figure at Euro 2021 and Euro 2024, as well as the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His experience and composure at the back will be sorely missed by the Dutch squad as they navigate a tournament without one of their most reliable defenders.

For Manchester United, the timeline offers a glimmer of hope. The club expects De Ligt to be available in the opening weeks of the new season, suggesting a full recovery is on the horizon. For now, though, the focus is on healing—and on the harsh reality that football's biggest stage will have to wait.