Back on track: De Ligt’s recovery ahead of the 2026 World Cup

In a brightly lit Manchester United training hall, 26‑year‑old Dutch defender Matthijs De Ligt posted a new Instagram video, showing him moving through drills as he works hard on his back‑injury recovery. The update comes just weeks after his May 15 surgery and ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Yesterday, De Ligt confirmed he is working hard on his rehabilitation, emphasizing the intensity of his daily sessions. He had announced on 15 May that a back operation would keep him sidelined for several months, forcing him to miss a World Cup with the Dutch national team.

The defender remains under contract with Manchester United until mid‑2029, with an option to extend for an additional season. This long‑term deal underscores the club’s belief in his future contributions despite recent setbacks.

De Ligt transferred to Manchester United in the summer of 2024, leaving Bayern Munich for a €45 million fee. Since joining the Red Devils, he has already made 56 appearances in the club’s shirt.

The 2025/2026 season began strongly for De Ligt, but a clash with Crystal Palace in November resulted in a back injury that ended his playing minutes. He subsequently underwent surgery in May, concluding the season on the treatment table.

In the Instagram footage, the Dutchman is seen in a sports hall adorned with a Manchester United logo and wearing the club’s kit, highlighting his ongoing integration with the team during rehabilitation.

Before his Manchester United spell, De Ligt featured for Bayern Munich, Juventus and Ajax, accumulating 117 matches for the Dutch side. These experiences form a rich pedigree that the Netherlands hopes to tap for the upcoming World Cup.

De Ligt’s progress is vital for the Dutch national team, which will rely on his defensive leadership at the 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. His return to full fitness could bolster the Netherlands’ chances on the global stage.