Here’s the latest I can share based on recent reporting.
Answer
- Matthijs de Ligt has been sidelined with a back problem and is not expected to participate in the 2026 World Cup for the Netherlands or return imminently for Manchester United. He underwent back surgery, and the club indicated the procedure was the most suitable course after a rehabilitation phase.[1][2]
Context and quick timeline
- The back issue has kept him out since late November 2025, with ongoing updates suggesting a slow rehabilitation and no firm timetable for a first-team return as of May 2026.[2][4][1]
- Prior reporting over the years has linked De Ligt with interest from clubs like Barcelona and Juventus, but those items are from earlier transfer periods and do not reflect the current situation or status post-surgery.[5][6][9][10]
Notes
- Because this is a fast-moving topic, I can look for the very latest updates (e.g., official club statements or new medical news) if you want me to pull the newest sources and summarize them with citations. Would you like me to do that?
Sources
Barcelona aren't hiding their desire to sign Matthijs de Ligt from Ajax, with club president Josep Maria Bartomeu telling SER Radio (h/t Metro) on Wednesday the defender's "name is on the table."
bleacherreport.comGet the latest Soccer news on Matthijs De Ligt. Stay up to date with player news, rumors, updates, analysis, social feeds, and more at FOX Sports.
www.foxsports.comManchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the 2026 World Cup after finally accepting defeat in his battle to avoid surgery on a long-standing back problem.
www.bbc.comWith Barcelona looking to bolster their defence, Juventus' Matthijs de Ligt has caught their attention. Transfer Talk is LIVE with the latest.
www.espn.comWith Barcelona looking to bolster their defence, Juventus' Matthijs de Ligt has caught their attention. Transfer Talk is LIVE with the latest.
www.espn.co.ukBarcelona will reportedly go head-to-head with Chelsea in the race to sign Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. Transfer Talk has the latest.
www.espn.comThe January transfer window is into its final week and, with another round of fixtures coming up, several clubs may find themselves persuaded to enter the market.
www.skysports.comManchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the 2026 World Cup after finally accepting defeat in his battle to avoid surgery on a long-standing back problem.
www.bbc.co.uk