The 26-year-old defender last played for United in the 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace on November 30, a result that came in the final weeks of Ruben Amorim's tenure. What was initially described as a minor problem deepened through the winter and into the spring, with De Ligt unable to resume normal training despite months of conservative treatment. Multiple attempts to return to running at Carrington ended without success.
"Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery to address a back injury," United confirmed in a club statement. "Having diligently worked throughout his rehabilitation process, the decision was made that a corrective procedure was the best course of action."
De Ligt shared his own account of the six months on Instagram.
"After six months of treatment and working hard to get back, surgery was the only option left. I'm disappointed I couldn't help the team the last six months and obviously missing out on the World Cup, but I am looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again."
He also addressed the club directly.
"Since November I have done everything, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football. I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible."
De Ligt joined from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024 for around £38 million and made a promising start to his United career before the back problem emerged. He had been a fixture in major tournaments for the Netherlands, appearing at Euro 2021, the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024. Ronald Koeman's side open their World Cup campaign against Japan on June 14.
His absence underlines the fragility of United's defensive depth this season. Lisandro Martínez also missed significant time through injury, leaving Carrick repeatedly reliant on Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf in the back line.
Frenkie de Jong, Micky van de Ven and Christian Eriksen were among those to send supportive messages on social media.