Matthijs de Ligt was in outstanding form for Manchester United at the beginning of the 2025–26 campaign.

The Dutch defender showcased his full defensive prowess, breaking down attacks before they could develop and making life difficult for opposing strikers, consistently winning his duels.

His performances quickly established him as the lynchpin of United’s defence, featuring in every minute of the club’s opening 13 Premier League fixtures and solidifying his position at the centre of the Red Devils’ back line.

It finally appeared that De Ligt had found his rhythm at Old Trafford, proving to be a real bargain following his £38.5 million move to the club.

His efforts were justly rewarded when he was named Manchester United’s Player of the Month for November.

However, what seemed to be a springboard for a stellar season was derailed by injury.

De Ligt sustained a back injury during United’s 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace on 30 November 2025.

Although the initial expectation was for a quick recovery, the issue persisted for months, ultimately ruling him out for the remainder of the season.

Both player and club initially attempted to avoid surgery, but by May, with no signs of improvement and little hope of making the Netherlands’ World Cup squad, he was left with no option but to undergo surgery.

Now, over a month later, a report from The Sun has provided an update on the Dutchman’s rehabilitation.

According to the report, “De Ligt’s recovery is progressing according to plan. He is currently in Ibiza, balancing rest with targeted rehabilitation after undergoing surgery on a troublesome back issue last month.”

The same report adds, “Sources indicate that his recovery is progressing smoothly, with the centre-back firmly targeting a return to action for the early stages of next season.”

Having yet to feature under new manager Michael Carrick, De Ligt will be eager to work with the former midfielder, whose arrival has already had a positive impact on the squad.

The 24-year-old will be determined to put his fitness troubles behind him, reclaim his place in the starting XI, and play a key role in United’s quest across multiple competitions as Champions League football returns to Old Trafford.

With De Ligt on his way back to full fitness and Lisandro Martínez seemingly rediscovering his best form, Manchester United’s defence could be among the most formidable in the Premier League next season.