Manchester United and Netherlands fans have been dealt a significant blow as defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the 2026 World Cup following back surgery. The 26-year-old Dutch international has finally accepted defeat in his battle to avoid an operation on a long-standing spinal issue that has kept him sidelined since late November.
De Ligt hasn't featured for the Red Devils since their victory at Crystal Palace on November 30. What initially seemed like a minor setback has snowballed into a season-defining absence. Former manager Ruben Amorim had optimistically predicted a swift return for the West Ham clash just days later, but that prognosis proved premature.
Despite repeated reassurances—including current boss Michael Carrick insisting surgery wasn't on the table—De Ligt's latest attempt to resume training at Carrington last month ended in disappointment. The club has now confirmed the inevitable: "Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery to address a back injury. Having diligently worked throughout his rehabilitation process, the decision was made that a corrective procedure was the best course of action."
The timing couldn't be worse for the Netherlands, who kick off their World Cup campaign against Japan on June 14. United expect De Ligt to be sidelined until the "early stages of the 2026-27 season," meaning he'll miss not only the tournament but likely the start of next season as well. Notably, this timeline doesn't include pre-season, though he may travel with the squad to Helsinki for their July 18 clash with Wrexham to continue his rehab.
Speaking on his setback, De Ligt showed characteristic resolve: "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. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible."
For a player who arrived at Old Trafford with immense promise, this represents a frustrating chapter. But at 26, De Ligt's best years are still ahead—once he's fully recovered and back in that famous red shirt.