Matthijs de Ligt returns to Manchester United squad after injury

Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has returned to the squad following a ten-month absence due to a persistent back injury. The 27-year-old center-back, who underwent surgery in May, has been included in the selection for the Champions League match against Atlético Madrid in Madrid.

Manager Michael Carrick expressed confidence in the defender's recovery during a press conference, stating, “I feel definitely good about letting him play,” while noting a cautious approach regarding his minutes and workload. De Ligt had been a mainstay in the defense before his last official appearance on November 30, 2025, against Crystal Palace. He has recently participated in training and a friendly match against Lausanne as he works toward a full return.