Matthijs de Ligt (foto: Getty Images)
Matthijs de Ligt has returned to Manchester United training after back surgery and a nine-month absence that also cost him a place at the World Cup.
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Manchester United could receive an important reinforcement without entering the transfer market. After a nightmare period lasting almost nine months, Matthijs de Ligt is finally approaching his return to competitive football.
The Dutch centre-back took part in the opening section of United's training session in Ireland on Monday, representing an important milestone in his rehabilitation following back surgery.
De Ligt joined his teammates in Ireland on Sunday after spending recent months working on his recovery at the club's Carrington training centre.
One day later, he was back on the grass with the first team.
United will not rush his return
The 26-year-old participated in the first part of Monday's session, although United's medical staff will continue to monitor his condition carefully.
The objective is to gradually increase his workload and prepare him for competitive football without risking another setback.
United begin their new Premier League season on August 22 against Hull City, but De Ligt's availability for the opening fixture will depend on how his body responds over the coming days.
For coach Michael Carrick, even having the Dutchman back around the senior squad represents encouraging news.
He has not played since November 2025
De Ligt's last competitive appearance for Manchester United came in November 2025.
United defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 in London that day, but the defender has not appeared since.
Until then, De Ligt had been an important member of the team and had started the opening 13 matches of the season.
Back problems then stopped his campaign.
Initially, there was optimism that the former Ajax captain would return without requiring such a lengthy absence, but his recovery proved considerably more complicated than expected.
The problem was particularly concerning because De Ligt had previously experienced issues with his back.
Eventually, the decision was made to undergo surgery in May.
Injury cost De Ligt the World Cup
The timing also brought another major disappointment.
De Ligt was unable to recover in time for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico and had to watch the tournament from home.
Missing the biggest international competition represented another difficult chapter in a season almost destroyed by injury.
Now, for the first time in months, the picture looks considerably more positive.
His return to team training does not mean he is ready to immediately play 90 minutes, but the Dutchman has finally reached an important stage of his rehabilitation.
A 'new signing' for Michael Carrick
Manchester United have been working to strengthen Carrick's squad during the summer, but a healthy De Ligt would effectively provide the coach with another major defensive option.
The Dutch international arrived at Old Trafford with considerable experience after representing Ajax, Juventus and Bayern Munich.
When healthy, he offers United physical strength, aerial ability, leadership and experience at the highest level.
His challenge now is to rediscover his rhythm after such a long absence.
The club intends to manage that process carefully, particularly considering the recurring nature of his back problems.
There is also another reason for De Ligt to celebrate this week.
On Wednesday, the defender will turn 27 years old.
After surgery, nine months without competitive football and a World Cup missed through injury, Matthijs de Ligt is finally back on the training pitch. For Manchester United and Michael Carrick, his return could feel like an important new signing.