De Ligt ‘as determined as ever’ to represent Manchester United after surgery

De Ligt will miss the World Cup.

De Ligt ‘as determined as ever’ to represent Manchester United after surgery

Manchester United have confirmed Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery on a back issue.

The Dutch centre-back has made only 16 appearances for United this season and has not featured since a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on November 30.

United confirmed on Friday that a corrective procedure had been deemed to be the best course of action for the 26-year-old, who will miss Netherlands’ campaign at the World Cup as a result.

But De Ligt is staying upbeat as he targets a return early in the 26-27 season for United.

“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,” De Ligt told United’s official website.

“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 also posted on his Instagram account: “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.”