Manchester United have received a major positive update with just five Premier League games remaining this season.
Man United have officially confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt has returned to individual training on grass.
The Dutch defender is pushing hard to regain full fitness, although there is still no clear timeline for his return.
De Ligt enjoyed a superb start to the 2025-26 season. He played every minute of the Premier League campaign before a back injury sidelined him from December onwards.
The former Bayern Munich star was the defensive rock of the team under former head coach Ruben Amorim.
His performances even made him an early frontrunner for the club’s Player of the Year award.
Amorim initially suggested the injury was not serious and that De Ligt could make a swift return.
Fast forward four months, and the defender may not feature again this season.
Both Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick have offered little clarity on when he might be available again.
There was optimism that De Ligt could return in January, but he suffered multiple setbacks in his recovery.
Signed for £42.9 million from Bayern Munich in 2024, De Ligt has yet to fully establish himself as a fan favourite at Old Trafford.
A strong start to this campaign boosted his reputation, but this lengthy absence means he may have to rebuild momentum next season.
United are unlikely to sign another centre-back this summer after extending Harry Maguire’s contract.
De Ligt must seize the opportunity and prove he can be relied upon to become the leader of United’s defence.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
