Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt is ruled out of the Netherlands’ 2026 World Cup campaign after undergoing back surgery, according to multiple reports. The Athletic and the BBC say the surgery ends his efforts to avoid treatment for a long-standing back problem. Manchester United is reported to have confirmed that he requires the procedure and that recovery will keep him out for the rest of the season, with some reporting indicating he will not return until next season.
All outlets agree that de Ligt has not been available for selection in recent weeks and that the timing of the surgery means he cannot be considered for the Netherlands squad this summer. The Independent reports he has not played for Manchester United since November, and the BBC adds that he accepts the need for surgery after a prolonged period managing the injury.
Together, the sources present a consistent account: de Ligt undergoes back surgery, is unavailable for club matches for an extended period, and will miss the World Cup due to his recovery timeline.
