Manchester United hopes for De Ligt for Champions League duel with Atlético

Matthijs de Ligt (27) is after an absence of almost a year fit enough again to make minutes for Manchester United and is in the squad for the Champions League match against Atlético Madrid. The defender resumed group training last week and shows himself ready for the European clash.

Carrick believes in the return of De Ligt

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick does not rule out playing time for De Ligt. “I have absolute confidence that he can play,” Carrick said on Monday at the press conference. He emphasized that the timing and amount of minutes are being carefully weighed.

On Monday it was reported that De Ligt (27) has rejoined United’s group training. Shortly afterwards he travelled to Spain, where he is on the bench for the clash against Atlético.

Matthijs de Ligt returns to Manchester United after months

Carrick added: “He took part in a small portion of the friendly match against Lausanne and has already trained quite a bit. We are building step by step, without going too fast.”

De Ligt last played on 30 November 2025 in an official match for United. After that followed a months‑long period without action due to a stubborn back injury, which also cost him the World Cup of last summer.

Carrick praises De Ligt, but United waits for his return

So far the defender has 56 competitive matches for Manchester United to his name. With his return the club hopes to extend that number further in the Champions League and the Premier League.