Manchester United, De Ligt is back: returns to action 325 days after his last appearance

The Dutch defender's ordeal is over.

After a long ordeal, Matthijs De Ligt is back. The Manchester United defender from the Netherlands returned to the starting line-up for the Champions League match against Como.

De Ligt's previous start had been 325 days earlier, on 30 November 2025. He then underwent conservative treatment and surgery to resolve his back problem.

The injury and the operation

"After six months of treatment and hard work to get back in shape, surgery was the only option left. I’m disappointed that I haven’t been able to help the team over the past six months and, of course, that I can’t take part in the World Cup, but I expect to do everything I can to get back on the pitch in front of the fans and feel better again."

On 15 May, the Dutch centre-back posted that message on social media shortly after his back operation. Since then, De Ligt has worked hard to make himself available to Carrick again.

Back on the pitch

De Ligt last played on 30 November 2025, in Manchester United's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace. Goals from Zirkzee and Mount made Mateta's strike count for nothing.

Today, he's back in the starting line-up against Como on matchday three of the 2026/2027 Champions League league phase.