Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Simon Peach

Man United defender ruled out of 2026 World Cup

World Cup de Ligt Matthijs de Ligt Manchester United
  • Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has undergone back surgery to finally resolve a persistent issue that has kept him sidelined for six months.
  • The corrective procedure means the 26-year-old's current season is over, and he will also miss the upcoming World Cup with the Netherlands.
  • De Ligt, who joined United in August 2024, has been limited to just 14 appearances this term, having not featured since a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace in late November.
  • Manchester United confirmed that the Netherlands international is expected to return for the club in the early stages of the 2026-27 season.
  • De Ligt expressed his disappointment at not being able to help his team or represent his country, but stated he is looking forward to doing everything to get back to full fitness.

IN FULL

Man United star Matthijs de Ligt to miss World Cup after undergoing back surgery

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Bonnie Blue Triggered 'Pregnant' Drinking Backlash to Fuel Insane £1M Rage-Bait Scam
Adult creator Bonnie Blue faces backlash after nightclub footage and her admitted fake‑pregnancy 'rage bait' stunts, which she claims earned her about £1 million.
International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
Demi Moore Allegedly 'Checked Into Rehab' After Fulfilling Her Promise to Never Leave Bruce Willis Alone
Demi Moore maintains a close bond with ex-husband Bruce Willis amid his dementia battle, despite false rumours of her overstepping boundaries in his care.
International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
Sylvester Stallone marks 29 years of marriage to Jennifer Flavin
Nearly three years after the couple briefly split and appeared headed for divorce, Sylvester Stallone has marked 29 years of marriage to Jennifer Flavin with a heartfelt social media tribute.
BANG Premier
BANG Premier
‘It just kept getting worse and worse’: South Carolina family showed up to their Florida Airbnb and only managed to stay there for three hours
Not even worthy of a 1-star review.
We Got This Covered
We Got This Covered
‘This should not be legal’: Iowa man never tips at his regular restaurant. Then he opens his receipt and finds an $11 surprise
The hottest U.S. culture debate reignites.
We Got This Covered
We Got This Covered
Teens are drinking less than their parents’ generation – but it may not be a good thing
Loneliness, worries over body image and slimmed budgets are among the factors said to be driving Gen Z to away from drinking
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.
Download on the AppStore Get it on Google Play