Horror for ex‑Bayern star Matthijs de Ligt – From drop to comeback

The horror surrounding former Bayern star Matthijs de Ligt continues: After leaving FC Bayern and a mixed first season with the Red Devils, in which Manchester United only finished 15th in the Premier League, the Dutch defender has been battling chronic back problems for ten months.

From Bayern to the Red Devils

De Ligt left FC Bayern in the summer of 2022 and moved to Manchester United. In his first season he showed personal acceptance, but the team only finished 15th in the Premier League.

The season was characterised by a certain feeling of stability, although the expectations for the former world‑talent star were high.

Injuries, Back Problems and World Cup Miss

In the final two months of the season he was absent due to two injuries and was not in the squad for the Europa League final, which Manchester United lost 0‑1 to Tottenham.

In November 2025 he was voted Player of the Month by the United fans, but on 30 November 2025 he played his last competitive match to date, before chronic back complaints kept him off the pitch for twenty months.

He was only able to resume individual training in April 2026, had to undergo surgery shortly afterwards and consequently lost his chances for the upcoming World Cup.

Return to Training and Earlier Transfers

One and a half months ago de Ligt returned to team training. “He won’t be ready to play yet, but he is in good shape and on the right track. Therefore, at this stage it is truly a big gain for us to have him back,” said Manchester‑coach Michael Carrick.

The Dutchman has been regarded since his youth at Ajax Amsterdam as an exceptional defensive talent, who moved to Juventus Turin in 2019 for €85.5 million and was signed by Bayern Munich in 2022 for €67 million.

Although a full squad comeback has so far not materialised, de Ligt is expected to be ready again in the autumn, provided his recovery continues to progress.