# Manchester United injury crisis and De Ligt's return > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/manchester-united-injury-crisis > Updated: 2026-10-15T19:00:56.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 5. Manchester United is navigating a significant injury crisis affecting multiple departments of the squad. Defensively, Matthijs de Ligt has returned to the squad following a ten-month absence caused by a persistent back injury that required surgery in May 2026. After being sidelined since his last official appearance against Crystal Palace on November 30, 2025, the Dutch international recently featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Lausanne-Sport to facilitate his comeback. He has now been included in the selection for the UEFA Champions League match against Atlético Madrid in Madrid. Manager Michael Carrick has expressed confidence in the recovery, stating, “I feel definitely good about letting him play,” though he noted a cautious approach regarding De Ligt’s workload and minutes. While De Ligt was included in the matchday squad for the fixture at the Wanda Metropolitano, he did not enter the pitch. Carrick described his return to the bench as a positive step in the reintegration process. Alongside De Ligt’s return, 18-year-old academy prospect Dan Armer received a surprise call-up to the senior squad for the trip to Madrid. Under-21 coach Adam Lawrence noted the inclusion provides a significant learning opportunity for the young defender. Other defensive concerns persist with injuries to Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu, which previously forced Carrick to consider unconventional tactical shifts, such as utilizing Ayden Heaven in a left-back role. The defensive unit also continues to manage the availability of Leny Yoro. In the attacking department, while Marcus Rashford and Benjamin Sesko remain unavailable, Amad has returned to group training on the grass. Additionally, Kobbie Mainoo recently withdrew from England camp for management purposes. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-15: Manchester United squad updates: De Ligt returns and Armer called up Manchester United manager Michael Carrick welcomed Matthijs de Ligt back to the matchday squad and praised academy talent Dan Armer following the club's Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/manchester-united-squad-updates-de-ligt-returns-and-armer-called-up ### 2026-10-12: Matthijs de Ligt returns to Manchester United squad after injury Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has returned to the squad for the Champions League match against Atlético Madrid after a ten-month absence due to a back injury. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/matthijs-de-ligt-returns-to-manchester-united-squad-after-injury ### 2026-10-03: Matthijs de Ligt nears return for Manchester United Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt is nearing a return to action following back surgery, providing a timely boost for Michael Carrick ahead of a demanding fixture schedule. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/matthijs-de-ligt-nears-return-for-manchester-united ### 2026-09-30: Manchester United faces injury crisis as Amad returns to training Manchester United faces an intensifying injury crisis involving multiple players, though Amad has reportedly returned to group training following his recovery. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/manchester-united-faces-injury-crisis-as-amad-returns-to-training ### 2026-09-28: Manchester United faces defensive reshuffle amid De Ligt injury recovery Manchester United faces defensive challenges as Matthijs de Ligt nears a return from long-term injury, potentially impacting the playing time of Leny Yoro and forcing tactical shifts under Michael Carrick. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ruud-gullit-supports-matthijs-de-ligt-amid-injury-struggles --- Cite as: Manchester United injury crisis and De Ligt's return. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/manchester-united-injury-crisis