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Matthijs de Ligt back to full training in Manchester

21 August 2026·5 min read·Jorge Navarro
Matthijs de Ligt back to full training in Manchester

Michael Carrick has confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt has returned to full training after a long lay-off with a back injury, but he has yet to be included in the Premier League opener against Hull City.

Matthijs de Ligt back in full training in Manchester

According to Vi.

Context

Mathijs de Ligt, a 27-year-old centre-back, last played for Manchester United on 30 November 2025. His return from injury has given the Premier League club's supporters hope that his experience and ability will help their league campaign.

Why it matters

Mathijs de Ligt's return to full training is an important step for Manchester United, especially as they start the Premier League season. His presence in the defense will help the team strengthen their defensive line, which will be important in the upcoming matches. However, avoiding any risk of re-injury was a smart decision from Michael Carrick.

Key Points

  • Matthijs de Ligt back in full training in Manchester.
  • Matthijs de Ligt is back in Manchester United's group training after a long back injury, but is not yet ready to play in the first match of the season against Hull City, according to coach Michael Carrick.
  • De Ligt zet volgende stap bij Man United: 'Geweldig om hem terug te hebben'.
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Matthijs de Ligt has returned to full training for Manchester United after a long lay-off with a back injury, manager Michael Carrick has confirmed. However, it is too early to rule out the 27-year-old centre-back in United's first game of the new Premier League season, an away trip against newly-promoted Hull City this Saturday. de Ligt's last official game for United was recorded on 30 November 2025 against Crystal Palace. Since then he was taken care of for a long time because of back problems. As he returns to group training, the tone at Carrington is clearly positive, but Carrick insists they are not rushing the Dutchman into the competition. According to the coach, de Ligt has been out of circulation for a long time, but it is good to see him back in practice. He added that the defense is in good condition and the player's return is moving in the right direction, but he will not be included on Saturday to avoid any possible recurrence of the injury. Manchester United are set to start the Premier League campaign with an immediate challenge: an away day against Hull City. Carrick emphasized that there are no easy starts in the league and visiting the home of a newly-promoted team is simply tough—a type of match he knows is tough based on his experience. The manager also stressed that they are clear about what the match demands and are ready they address it, even though de Ligt is not yet on the list of possible players. De Ligt's return to training is vital for United's defensive depth and balance over a long season. It is also an indication that his full return is nearing, although the club has not set a target date. For now, the focus is to ensure his condition and rhythm are solidified before rejoining competitive minutes in the Premier League. For United, the conservative handling of their veteran defender's situation makes sense. Any hasty return is fraught with danger, especially when the back is affected—a body part critical to the aerial duels, space-keeping, and sudden turns that the center-back position demands on a daily basis. While fans await his official comeback, it can be considered a positive step that he is resuming normal rehearsals with the group. All in all, Matthijs de Ligt's progress is a good sign for Manchester United, but Michael Carrick's message is clear: nothing is rushed, the player's long-term health and fitness are more important. On Saturday, the Red Devils travel to Hull without him, aiming to start the season on the right foot against a feisty and hungry Championship side.

What's next

While de Ligt will not be able to participate in the match against Hull City, it is expected he will be part of the next training sessions and may play in the upcoming matches. Manchester United have a tight schedule in the Premier League, so de Ligt's return could be key to their success this season. Fans hope to see him playing again soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Matthijs de Ligt?

Mathijs de Ligt has returned to full training for Manchester United after a long lay-off due to a back injury.

Who confirmed de Ligt's return?

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick confirmed Matthijs de Ligt's return to training.

Why won't de Ligt play in the first match against Hull City?

According to Carrick, it is too early to include de Ligt in the match to avoid any possible recurrence of the injury.

What are the changes in Manchester United's defence?

De Ligt's return to training is vital for United's defensive depth and balance over a long season.

When is Manchester United's first Premier League match?

Manchester United's first match of the new Premier League season is against Hull City this Saturday.

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Mga Madalas na Itanong

What happened to Matthijs de Ligt?
Matthijs de Ligt has returned to full training for Manchester United after a long lay-off with a back injury.
Who confirmed de Ligt's return?
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick confirmed Matthijs de Ligt's return to training.
Why won't de Ligt take part in the first match against Hull City?
According to Carrick, it is too early to include de Ligt in the match to avoid any possible recurrence of the injury.
What are the changes in Manchester United's defence?
De Ligt's return to training is vital for United's defensive depth and balance over a long season.
When is Manchester United's first Premier League match?
Manchester United's first match of the new Premier League season is against Hull City this Saturday.
What happened in this story?
Matthijs de Ligt returns to full training in Manchester summarizes the main development covered in this report.
Who confirmed this news?
See the source attribution in the article for where this report was first published or corroborated.
TeamsPremier LeagueManchester UnitedHull CityMatthijs de Ligt

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